Royal & Derngate 2013 Summer Brochure

DERNGATE CELEBRATING

YEARS

Summer drama dance comedy children’s shows opera music spoken word musical theatre Box Office 01604 624811 Book Online www.royalandderngate.co.uk

2013

CATS

The happiest days of my life were spent at northampton Rep

Boughton House 1952

s we have been preparing to launch our brand new cinema and find a fitting name, we kept returning to the one, genuine A-list connection that Northampton and our theatres have to Hollywood and the movies‌ Errol Flynn. Whilst his private life was fuelled by controversy, there is no escaping that he was the most famous film actor of his generation.

We like to think his success is in part due to his time here, developing as an actor as he trod the boards in The Royal as a member of the Northampton Repertory Players. With this in mind, we are claiming him as one of our own, and naming our new cinema the Errol Flynn Filmhouse.

The 90-seat cinema promises the discerning movie-goer an unrivalled experience, hosting the very best in world, independent, British and mainstream films. Audiences will enjoy state of the art digital film projection from the comfort of individual leather seats, where you can also sample a wide range of continental beers, wine and champagne and some locally sourced produce, all delivered with first class service.

A

ng uled to open in June, so join our maili The Errol Flynn Filmhouse is sched updates by emailing and news ve recei to first the gst list to be amon cinem a@royalandderngate.co.uk

Box Office 01604 624811 www.royalandderngate.co.uk

Welcome to

Summer 2013 We are pleased to announce an exciting Summer 2013 season at Royal & Derngate, which as well as including a host of great shows, also sees the launch of new services that we hope you will enjoy.

Highlights in the Derngate auditorium include the acclaimed musicals High Society, Soul Sister, CATS and Buddy, the sizzling dance show Midnight Tango, and the stunning Peter Schaufuss Ballet. To mark the 30th birthday of The Derngate we are making available a number of 30p tickets on certain performances (see below for details). In the Royal auditorium, our Made In Northampton 2013 season offers a mix of hilarious, emotionally powerful and inspiring plays, including A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Dancing At Lughnasa and To Sir, With Love.

This season sees the launch of our brand new website, which will offer you a host of new features, including more detailed information on individual shows, easier ways to connect with social media and an exclusive Friends area. Also look out for a new mobile ticketing app for Northampton Arts & Culture, which will feature shows at Royal & Derngate, showcase other cultural highlights in the county, and offer a quick and easy ticket booking service on your mobile phone.

Finally, by the end of this season, Northampton audiences will be enjoying a new cinema-going experience in the heart of Northampton, as we launch the brand new Errol Flynn Filmhouse here at Royal & Derngate. We hope you will be one of the first to join us.

DERNGATE CELEBRATING

YEARS

To celebrate The Derngate’s 30th birthday in April this year, we are offering first time bookers the unique opportunity to experience great theatre for just 30p.

At A Glance Look out for the following discount symbols on brochure pages: Concessions Group discounts Schools rates Family savings Friends savings Real discounts 14-26 year olds Eat And Drink special offers Full details of all discounts and concessions are available on page 62.

DIARY OF EVENTS Turn to the centre pages for our full season listings on our diary page.

30 shows with 30 tickets for 30p are available for a variety of performances throughout our birthday year, including Soul Sister, Midnight Tango, CATS, Buddy and Peter Schaufuss Ballet.

We hope that this initiative will encourage new audiences who have never been to Royal & Derngate before to try out the experience of live theatre for the first time. For more information or to book your tickets simply call Box Office on 01604 624811.

Please note this open to first time bookers only (new households, four tickets per household) and is not available on tickets already purchased or in conjunction with any other discount or offer.

Terms and conditions apply. Purchased tickets will be available for collection from Box Office on the evening of the performance on production of the card used to purchase. The 30 tickets priced at 30p are in a set location on listed performances and will be issued on a first come, first served basis.

Box Office 01604 624811 www.royalandderngate.co.uk

Download an online copy of our brochure by scanning this QR code to your smartphone.

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MUSICAL MULTI-SAVER 2013 We have a fantastic range of musicals coming to Royal & Derngate this year. If you’re feeling spoilt for choice, why not make the most of our Musical Multi-Saver?

Book tickets for CATS and receive a £5 discount on each ticket you book for the first night of High Society, Soul Sister and Buddy, plus the sizzling dance show Midnight Tango.

Tue 9 – Sat 13 April

See page 13 for full details

Mon 6 – Sat 11 May

See page 19 for full details

Mon 8 – Sat 13 July

See page 29 for full details

Mon 30 September – Sat 5 October

See page 38 for full details

Look out for the Musical Multi-Saver symbol throughout the brochure

Mon 11 – Sat 16 November See page 46 for full details

This offer is valid on bookings of up to four tickets. This offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer or discount, excluding concessions.

Box Office 01604 624811 www.royalandderngate.co.uk

MADE IN NORTHAMPTON 2013 SUBSCRIPTION SEASON Our 2013 Made In Northampton season is underway, with four exciting shows still remaining. The first two plays are great comedies written by two of the country’s most beloved playwrights, and these are followed by two gripping dramas, including a world premiere. Subscribe & Save now and you could save up to 20% on every ticket – see page 60 for full details of our subscription packages.

MR WHATNOT

by Alan Ayckbourn

FRI 15 MARCH – SAT 6 APRIL See page 6 for full details

Dancing At Lughnasa

A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM

by William Shakespeare FRI 19 APRIL – SAT 11 MAY See page 14 for full details

TO SIR, WITH LOVE

by Brian Friel

based on the novel by E R Braithwaite adapted by Ayub Khan Din

FRI 24 MAY – SAT 15 JUNE

FRI 6 – SAT 28 SEPTEMBER

See page 22 for full details

See page 34 for full details

Box Office 01604 624811 www.royalandderngate.co.uk

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Royal

Box Office 01604 624811 www.royalandderngate.co.uk

Mr Whatnot

by Alan Ayckbourn 50th Anniversary Production

Director Cal McCrystal Designer Lucy Bradridge Lighting Designer Richard Godin Sound Designer Helen Atkinson Choreographer Ivan Fabrega Eves 7.45pm (excl. Tue 19 Mar 7pm) Thu & Sat Matinees 2.30pm (excl. Sat 16 Mar) Tue 2 Apr 7.45pm

Fri 15 March – Sat 6 April Alan Ayckbourn is one of the country’s most loved and prolific playwrights. Following on from our Ayckbourn at 70 Season in 2009 we are delighted to present one of his rarely seen early plays – his very first to transfer to the West End. This is the 50th anniversary production of a side-splitting play combining a tribute to the physical comedy of the silent movie era with the very British obsessions with class, cucumber sandwiches and bed-hopping.

In this hilarious fish-out-of-water tale, a naïve but highly imaginative piano tuner is summoned to the stately home of Lord and Lady Slingsby-Craddock. A case of mistaken identity leads to an increasingly surreal series of encounters over a summer weekend of tennis matches and afternoon tea, as Mr Whatnot attempts to win the affections of their debutante daughter Amanda. Think Mr Bean goes to Downton.

A wonderfully silly tale of havoc and mayhem, Mr Whatnot is directed by the brilliant Cal McCrystal, long-term collaborator with Spymonkey and physical comedy director for the award‑winning National Theatre production, One Man, Two Guvnors. “fans of comic theatre... know him as Britain’s funniest director” The Guardian on Cal McCrystal

Box Office 01604 624811 www.royalandderngate.co.uk

Wed 3 Apr 7.45pm & Thu 4 Apr 2.30pm Thu 4 Apr 7.45pm TICKETS Mon – Sat Eves £24 £22 £19 £13 (Premium Seats £28) Thu & Sat Matinees £19 £13 (Premium Seats £20)

2 for 1 on top 2 prices (Fri 15 Mar), £3 off top 3 prices at other times (excl. Mats)

Subscribe & Save

Save up to 20% per ticket.

See page 60 for details.

Post Show Talk Back Mon 25 March Masterclass for Over 18s Clowning Wed 27 March 7pm-9pm £15 A programme of schools work is available. Email georgia.munnion@ royalandderngate.co.uk

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Derngate

“The cleverest murder mystery of British Theatre” DAILY Telegraph

The Mousetrap

Mon 18 – Sat 23 March Eves 7.30pm, Wed & Sat Matinees 2.30pm The Mousetrap is the longest running show of any kind in the history of British theatre and is now on its first tour, complete with a star cast, to celebrate 60 incredible years on stage.

A group of people, gathered in a country house cut off by snow, discover to their horror that there is a murderer in their midst.

Who can it be? One by one, the suspicious characters reveal their sordid pasts until at the last, nerve‑shredding moment the murderer’s identity and motive are finally revealed.

In her own inimitable style, Dame Agatha Christie creates an atmosphere of shuddering suspense and a brilliantly intricate plot, where murder lurks around every corner.

Wed 20 Mar 2.30pm & 7.30pm Thu 21 Mar 7.30pm

“A truly entertaining classic thriller” Sunday Times

TICKETS Mon – Thu Eves £25 £20 £18 £16 £12 Fri Eve, Sat Matinee & Eve £29.50 £24.50 £22.50 £18 £14 Wed Matinee £23 £18 £16 £14 £10

£3 off top 3 prices (excl. Sat Eve & Wed Mat)

Underground

ROYAL & DERNGATE YOUTH THEATRE

Shoot/Get Treasure/Repeat Sat 23 – Sun 24 March 10.45am Shoot/Get Treasure/Repeat is a collection of plays by Mark Ravenhill, exploring the personal and political effect of war on modern life. Performed in site-specific locations all over Royal & Derngate by our Young Actors Company, this immersive, harrowing and darkly funny performance will challenge your perceptions of war, the media and our obsession with being good.

Recommended for ages 14 and above TICKETS £8.50 (including a cup of tea or coffee and a croissant)

Friends

From as little as £30, become a Friend and make fabulous savings throughout the year. Benefits include: symbol on our brochure pages) • Discounts (just look for • Advanced email information about shows going on sale • Priority booking and brochure mailing • Free exchange facility, no transaction or postage fee • Local discounts including at Eat And Drink, St Giles Cheese and The Church Restaurant and Bar • Friends e-newsletter Call Box Office today and see how you could save.

Box Office 01604 624811 www.royalandderngate.co.uk

KIRILL KARABITS CONDUCTS RUSSIAN MASTERPIECES SUN 24 MARCH 7.30PM

Acclaimed Ukranian maestro Kirill Karabits leads a concert of passionate Russian masterpieces overflowing with dramatic melodies and memorable themes: Borodin’s Prince Igor Overture, Prokofiev’s Piano Concerto No.3 and Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No.1, ‘Winter Daydreams’.

TICKETS £32.50 £30 £26 £24 £20 £14

Derngate

ROYAL PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA

£68

FRI 29 MARCH 7.30PM Rock ‘n’ roll legend Joe Brown brings his brand new show to Northampton, packed with timeless classics, rockabilly, gospel, country, folk, and rock ‘n’ roll, plus some of the tunes on his new, critically acclaimed album The Ukulele Album. This show will incorporate his effervescent delivery of his music and his humorous reminiscences, and he will perform with his five piece band, including his son and record producer, Pete Brown.

Derngate

JOE BROWN

TICKETS £22.50

WED 3 APRIL 11AM & 1.30PM

See Chris and Pui from Show Me Show Me live on stage!

CBeebies’ favourite double act are back in town with songs, rhymes, comedy sketches and lots of joining in for all the family. See Incy, Humpty, the Grand Old Duke and – ‘oh my woolly word!’ – Little Bo Peep, plus many other of your favourite characters live on stage. You are invited to bring your teddies or favourite character toys – but do hang on to them!

TICKETS £10

Derngate

CHRIS & PUI ROADSHOW

Children’s Activity Offer Food & Fun £4.50

Sat 6 april 8pm

In her internationally acclaimed one woman show, the Dynasty diva and celebrated actress Joan Collins takes to the stage with honesty, style and grace to share the stories and secrets of her amazing career as one of the world’s most glamorous and intriguing personalities.

Derngate

One Night with Joan

“A terrific storyteller” The Times “The audience Loved It” The Guardian TICKETS £32.50 £30

Box Office 01604 624811 www.royalandderngate.co.uk

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Don’t miss Chris & Pui – page 9 Dinosaur Zoo – page 40 Once In A Blue Moon – page 41 Aliens Love Underpants – page 45

ROYAL PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA FAMILY DAYS Join members of the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra to explore the sounds of the Orchestra, from the beautiful melodies of the Russian composer, Tchaikovsky, to all the sounds of a night at the opera! Sessions include songs, musical games and insights from the players about life in the Orchestra, and they will help you to create your very own piece. Adults are welcome to join in too!

Our upcoming workshops include:

TOTALLY TCHAIKOVKSY SUNDAY 14 APRIL 11.30am-12.30pm (ages 2-5 years) 1pm-2.30pm (ages 6-13 years)

FREE CHILD’S SANDWICH FROM OUR ‘JUST’ RANGE WITH EVERY PURCHASE OF AN ADULT MEAL DEAL ON FAMILY FRIENDLY PERFORMANCE DAYS

EASTER DRAMA COURSE

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

BY ROALD DAHL Tue 2 – Fri 5 Apr, Tue 9 – Fri 12 Apr 10am-3pm Congratulations, this golden ticket will admit you into Willy Wonka’s amazing Chocolate Factory! This Easter we bring to life Roald Dahl’s scrumptious story in a four-day drama course. Young actors will act, sing, dance, play games and make (edible!) scenery in a fun and relaxed environment, all leading to a delectable performance on the final day!

Cost £80 per participant This course takes place at Maidwell Theatre at The University Of Northampton.

HALF-TERM DRAMA COURSE

THE JUNGLE BOOK

BY RUDYARD KIPLING

WED 29 – FRI 31 MAY 10AM-3PM

OPERA-TASTIC SUNDAY 16 JUNE 11.30am-12.30pm (ages 2-5 years) 1pm-2.30pm (ages 6-13 years) TICKETS £2.50 per child (accompanying adults free) No instrumental skills are necessary, but if you can play, please do bring along your instrument. If you come to the workshops, why not make a day of it and book for our evening concert too? Children’s tickets start from just £5, see pages 9, 16 and 26 for details.

Let your little monkeys go wild at half‑term with our Jungle Book drama course. Children will act, sing, dance, play confidence-boosting drama games and even paint their own jungle scenery, all leading to a performance of Rudyard Kipling’s timeless story at the end of the week.

Cost £60 per participant Both courses are recommended for ages 6-12. Earlier drop-offs and later pickups are available on request. For more information please contact Natalie Diddams on 01604 655777 or email youththeatre@ royalandderngate.co.uk

Birthday parties Let us create a birthday party for your child that stands out from the rest in the way that only the theatre can.

Our packages are packed with music, games and activities to thrill the senses and ignite the imagination, and can be tailored to suit children aged 3 to 14 years.

We can even provide a delicious selection of party food and party bags, so all that is left for parents to do is to enjoy the event in a relaxed, family friendly environment.

For more information or to book, please contact Natalie Diddams on 01604 655777 or email natalie.diddams@royalandderngate.co.uk

Box Office 01604 624811 www.royalandderngate.co.uk

Underground

R I A H Y Z CRA an

By Neil Gaim

Wed 3 – Sun 7 April Bamboozle presents Crazy Hair, an adaptation of Neil Gaiman’s delightful children’s story.

Bonnie is so fascinated by Mister’s wild hairstyle that she decides to try to tame it. However, Mister feels his hair is misunderstood, and so begins a bizarre adventure as Bonnie and her comb jostle with puppets and pirates, hunters and hot air balloons, a musician and a mischievous monkey!

This wonderful performance is suitable for all children and their families and sees the audience brought right up close to the performers. It is a multi‑sensory feast, with delightful songs and fast moving action.

“This superb company can amaze, enchant and entertain in a way no other theatre group has ever done! You simply cannot afford to miss Bamboozle.”

Debbie Withers, Head Teacher, Wren Spinney School “What a fantastic performance! Kids loved it, staff loved it. The whole school is buzzing about Bamboozle!” Linda McGrath, Senior Teacher, Priory Woods School

Box Office 01604 624811 www.royalandderngate.co.uk

PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE Wed 3 April 11am 2pm Thu 4 Apr 11am 2pm Fri 5 April 11am 2pm Sat 6 April 11am 2pm Sun 7 April 11am 2pm

Red Shows All families welcome Green Shows Specifically for families with children with special needs TICKETS £6.50 Children’s Activity Offer Food & Fun £4.50

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Royal

Limelight Theatre School

NATIONAL THEATRE CONNECTIONS

Sun 7 april 1pm & 5pm Limelight Theatre School is pleased to be back once again by popular demand with another show-stopping performance.

The pupils from the fictitious school HSPA are up to yet another adventure, but where will their antics take them this time? With foot tapping songs for all the family to enjoy, audiences are in for a real treat.

Mon 8 – Fri 12 April 1.30pm-7pm Each year the National Theatre asks ten exciting writers to create new plays which are performed by young theatre companies all over the country. Royal & Derngate is one of 20 venues across the UK, from Scotland to Cornwall and Northern Ireland to Norfolk, in which Connections celebrates great new writing for the stage and the energy, commitment and talent of young theatre-makers.

This year, the writers were asked to go back to their home town and work with young people on ideas for their plays. From these encounters came stories of circuses, aliens, sound-clashes, embarrassing parents, mobiles and messaging, love and heartache.

Do not miss your chance to be amongst the first to see these thrilling new works, performed by the rising theatre stars of our region: Bedford College perform Tomorrow I’ll Be Happy by Jonathan Harvey Wootton Upper School perform Forty Five Minutes by Anya Reiss High Jinks perform We Lost Elijah by Ryan Craig HT Productions perform The Mobile Phone Show by Jim Cartwright The St Ives Youth Theatre perform We Lost Elijah by Ryan Craig Lakeside Arts perform Tomorrow I’ll Be Happy by Jonathan Harvey Oxford Arts perform I’m Spilling My Heart Out Here by Stacey Gregg Stopsley School perform The Mobile Phone Show by Jim Cartwright Arnold Academy perform Don’t Feed The Animals by Jemma Kennedy Royal & Derngate Youth Theatre perform We Lost Elijah by Ryan Craig Meridian School perform We Lost Elijah by Ryan Craig For more details about Royal & Derngate’s festival and a full schedule of performances, visit the Creative Projects section of our website.

For more information about the Connections programme visit www.nationaltheatre.org.uk/connections

TICKETS £13.50

Under 16s £9.50

TICKETS £6 per day – to book call Box Office on 01604 624811

Box Office 01604 624811 www.royalandderngate.co.uk

Derngate MUSIC & LYRICS IN ASSOCIATION WITH VENUE CYMRU PRESENTS

Music & lyrics by Cole Porter Book by Arthur Kopit Additional lyrics by Susan Birkenhead

Including the classic songs True Love, You’re Sensational and Well, Did You Evah!

TUE 9 – SAT 13 APRIL Get ready for a glorious night of vintage Hollywood when the feel‑good musical of the season, Cole Porter’s High Society, skips into town in a dazzling new production from the acclaimed producers of The King And I. Wealthy socialite Tracy Lord is in the midst of planning a lavish summer wedding when her ex-husband Dexter Haven turns up to disrupt the proceedings in an attempt to win her back. A further twist arrives in the form of charming reporter Mike Connor, who falls instantly for Tracy and she for him. As the day of the wedding draws closer, we are left guessing which groom the bride will choose!

High Society stars Michael Praed (Robin Of Sherwood, The Sound Of Music), Marilyn Cutts (Royal & Derngate’s Honk!), Teddy Kempner (Acorn Antiques The Musical), Daniel Boys (Any Dream Will Do) and Sophie Bould (Royal & Derngate’s The Go-Between). Adapted from the hit 1956 film starring Bing Crosby, Grace Kelly and Frank Sinatra, the show bubbles with a host of beautiful ballads, including the unforgettable Well, Did You Evah! This uplifting and sparkling production proves Porter’s classic musical style and fizzing wit will always be in fashion.

Eves 7.30pm Wed & Sat Matinees 2.30pm Wed 10 Apr 2.30pm & 7.30pm Thu 11 Apr 7.30pm TICKETS Tue – Thu Eves & Sat Matinee £31 £25 £22 £18 £14 Fri & Sat Eves £34.50 £28.50 £25.50 £21.50 £15.50 Wed Matinee £24 £22 £14

2 for 1 on top 2 prices (Tue Eve), £3 off top 3 prices at other times (excl. Sat Eve & Wed Mat)

Based on the play The Philadelphia Story by Philip Barry. Also based on the Turner Entertainment Co. motion picture High Society. High Society is supported by Arts Council Wales.

Box Office 01604 624811 www.royalandderngate.co.uk

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Royal

Box Office 01604 624811 www.royalandderngate.co.uk

Joseph Alessi Amy Robbins

A Midsummer night’s dream

by William Shakespeare Fri 19 April – Sat 11 May ‘Methought I was enamoured of an ass’ Titania, Act 4 Scene 1 Slip into a world of enchantment and mischief in Shakespeare’s best loved comedy.

This new production sets the action in Edwardian England, but mischief is afoot and the usual divides of upstairs/downstairs have been turned upside down. Worlds real and unreal collide, passion and madness erupt, love and magic work their potent charms and love at first sight proves real for some but makes an ass of others.

Director Gary Sefton Designer Ti Green Lighting Designer Richard Godin Composer & Sound Designer Jon Nicholls Eves 7.45pm (excl. Tue 23 Apr 7pm & Tue 30 Apr 5pm) Thu & Sat Matinees 2.30pm (excl. Sat 20 Apr) School-friendly performances Tue 30 Apr 5pm & Thu 2 May 2.30pm Tue 7 May 7.45pm Wed 8 May 7.45pm & Thu 9 May 2.30pm Thu 9 May 7.45pm

TICKETS Mon – Sat Eves £24 £22 £19 £13 (Premium Seats £28) Thu & Sat Matinees £19 £13 (Premium Seats £20)

‘The course of true love never did run smooth’ Lysander, Act 1 Scene 1 Perfect both as an introduction to Shakespeare and for seasoned Shakespeare audiences, A Midsummer Night’s Dream offers a feast of humour and magic.

Under the thrilling and energetic direction of Gary Sefton (who directed A Christmas Carol, Diary Of A Nobody and Travels With My Aunt for Royal & Derngate) the winning combination of Shakespeare’s lyrical text and some of his funniest characters make this rich, vivid production a real treat for all ages. The cast includes Joseph Alessi (Brief Encounter at Royal & Derngate) and Amy Robbins (ITV’s The Royal).

“The cleverest, fastest entertainment I have seen for months” HHHHH Daily Mail on Diary of a Nobody Box Office 01604 624811 www.royalandderngate.co.uk

2 for 1 on top 2 prices (Fri 19 Apr), £3 off top 3 prices at other times (excl. Mats)

Subscribe & Save

Save up to 20% per ticket.

See page 60 for details.

Post Show Talk Back Mon 29 April Masterclass for Over 18s Shakespeare’s Comedies Wed 15 May 7pm-9pm £15 A programme of schools work is available. Email georgia.munnion@ royalandderngate.co.uk

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Derngate

ROYAL PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA

ALEXANDER SHELLEY CONDUCTS SCHEHERAZADE SUN 14 APRIL 7.30PM

The talented and widely regarded Alexander Shelley makes a welcome return to the Orchestra to conduct a spectacular programme, featuring Tchaikovsky’s Romeo And Juliet Fantasy Overture, Rachmaninov’s Rhapsody On A Theme Of Paganini and Rimsky-Korsakov’s Scheherazade.

TICKETS £32.50 £30 £26 £24 £20 £14

Infamous

MON 15 – SAT 20 APRIL 8PM

Y ED IT IT IL VERY M B LI ILA A AV

Derngate

Derren Brown

£68

Only a few tickets remain for master of psychological illusion Derren Brown’s new live show. For the past 12 years he has created TV and stage performances that have stunned audiences, debunked the paranormal and encouraged many to improve and enhance their own mental abilities.

Infamous promises a truly unique live stage show.

TICKETS £35 £32 £29

Recommended for ages 12 and above

DERNGATE

THE ILLEGAL EAGLES Heaven Heats Up tour FRI 26 APRIL 7.30PM Following their critically acclaimed performances in the UK, Europe and beyond, The Illegal Eagles return to Royal & Derngate with their Heaven Heats Up tour. The band will be performing all the classic Eagles hits, including Hotel California, Take It Easy, Tequila Sunrise, Lyin’ Eyes and many more.

TICKETS £23.50, £21

Derngate

That’ll be the day BRAND NEW 2013 SHOW SAT 27 APRIL 7.30PM Prepare yourself for a party as the legendary rock ‘n’ roll variety show That’ll Be The Day returns, by popular demand, with a brand new production.

This hugely entertaining rock ‘n’ roll spectacular features an all-new line up of knock-out hits from the 1950s, ’60s and ’70s, mixed with lots of new zany comedy routines for a show with a real, feel-good party atmosphere.

TICKETS £23 £21.50

Box Office 01604 624811 www.royalandderngate.co.uk

Derngate

Pauline Quirke

Lesley Joseph

Linda Robson

“Very funny” Daily Telegraph

Eves 7.30pm, Wed & Sat Matinees 2.30pm Wed 1 May 2.30pm & 7.30pm

LIVE ON STAGE Tue 30 APRIL – SAT 4 MAY One of BBC TV’s most popular and fondly‑remembered sitcoms, Birds Of A Feather comes to the stage with all three of its original leading cast members, Pauline Quirke, Linda Robson and Northampton’s own Lesley Joseph.

The TV series became a huge hit in the ’90s and ran for nearly 10 years. Now the three stars are re-united on stage to re-create their adored characters, sisters Sharon Theodopolopoudos and Tracy Stubbs and their sex-mad neighbour, Dorien Green. Don’t miss this chance to see the girls live!

“THE WRITING IS SHARP, THE GAGS AS GLEEFULLY INSULTING AS EVER” THE STAGE

Thu 2 May 7.30pm TICKETS Tue – Thu Eves & Sat Matinee £25 £23 £20 £17.50 £16 Fri & Sat Eves £29.50 £26.50 £25.50 £23.50 £19 Wed Matinee £23 £21 £18 £15 £13.50 Girls Night Out Offer Wine & Sweets £14

£3 off top 3 prices (excl. Sat Eve & Wed Mat)

“THOROUGHLY ENJOYABLE” BRITISH THEATRE GUIDE Box Office 01604 624811 www.royalandderngate.co.uk

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Royal

Royal & Derngate Youth Theatre

A MINI MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM Sun 28 April 7.15pm

Young lovers collide with warring fairies and rude mechanicals in this magical, music-filled retelling of one of Shakespeare’s best loved comedies.

Royal & Derngate Youth Theatre’s response to the Made In Northampton production (see page 14) will take place on Royal stage, using the professional set, and will be a remixed and reworked celebration of magic, silliness and love.

TICKETS £7

is pleased to support this production

Underground

The University of Northampton School of The Arts

THE FLASH THEATRE FESTIVAL MON 29 APRIL – FRI 3 MAY

The Flash Theatre Festival is a celebration of alternative theatre, presenting original devised works created by BA (Hons) Acting students from The University of Northampton.

Students have been working independently to produce engaging and entertaining performances in a variety of styles, ranging from visual comedy to contemporary experimental work. Each piece is an entirely original performance that has been specifically created for the festival.

Performances will take place at Royal & Derngate and various other venues across Northampton.

Visit www.royalandderngate.co.uk for a full schedule of performances.

Performers include:

Hush

Olive Dogg

TICKETS From £5 – see www.royalandderngate.co.uk for full details

Underground

TREASURE ISLAND FRI 10 MAY 7PM

In an exciting musical adventure for all the family, Looking Glass Theatre sets sail on the high seas. Meet Jim Hawkins and join his quest to stop Long John Silver and the pirates from finding hidden treasure!

This version of Robert Louis Stevenson’s Treasure Island is adapted and co‑directed by James J. Smith and Leigh Souter, with music by Ian Riley.

TICKETS £13

This show will also be performed on the following dates at Abington Park Museum: Wed 28 – Fri 30 August 7pm, Sat 31 August 2pm.

Box Office 01604 624811 www.royalandderngate.co.uk

Derngate Direct From the West End

HHHH Daily MAIL

“SENSATIONAL” The Times

HHHH

Evening Standard

“Simply the best”

Daily Telegraph

Inspired by the music, life and times of Ike &

Eves 7.30pm Wed & Sat Matinees 2.30pm

Mon 6 – sat 11 may Straight from her sensational West End season, critically acclaimed Emi Wokoma stars in this brand new musical inspired by the life and times of Ike and Tina Turner.

The story follows the highs and lows, passion and heartbreak of Ike and Tina as their careers soared and their marriage crumbled.

Do not miss Wokoma’s incredible, star-making performance alongside the complete West End cast, including Chris Tummings’ triumphant, “hissably cocksure and sleazy Ike” (The Independent), the exuberant Ikettes and a superb on-stage band.

Soul Sister features the classic songs What’s Love Got To Do With It, Proud Mary, Private Dancer, River Deep Mountain High and of course, Simply The Best, plus many more. Filled with heart and soul, electrifying choreography and stunning musical numbers, this fantastic show is sure to have you on your feet, partying the night away.

Wed 8 May 2.30pm & Thu 9 May 7.30pm Wed 8 May 7.30pm TICKETS Mon – Thu Eves & Sat Matinee £30 £26.50 £22.50 £18.50 £15.50 Fri & Sat Eves £32.50 £29.50 £24.50 £20.50 £16.50 Wed Matinee £26 £24 £16 £15 Girls Night Out Offer Wine & Sweets £14

2 for 1 on top 2 prices (Mon Eve), £3 off top 3 prices at other times (excl. Fri Eve, Sat Eve & Wed Mat)

“A back catalogue to die for. The hits hardly stop coming” evening standard Box Office 01604 624811 www.royalandderngate.co.uk

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DERNGATE

SHAOLIN WARRIORS RETURN OF THE MASTER SUN 12 MAY 7.30PM You will be mesmerised by 22 Kung Fu masters’ agility, strength and skill, using Buddhist meditation and martial arts training, in the Shaolin Warriors’ brand new show. They will perform death-defying Kung Fu disciplines and fight with over 20 kinds of dangerous traditional weapons.

“JAW DROPPING! A PERFECT FAMILY SHOW” EDINBURGH EVENING NEWS TICKETS £22.50 £20.50 £18.50 £16.50 £14.50

DERNGATE

Sean Lock

PURPLE VAN MAN TUE 14 MAY 8PM Filled with gags, opinions, deft observations and some silly voices, see British Comedy Award-winner Sean Lock (Live At The Apollo, Michael McIntyre’s Comedy Roadshow, 8 Out Of 10 Cats) doing what he does best, spouting inspired jibber jabber as he crosses the country in a purple van.

“PUNCHY, INVENTIVE, SUPERB... UNDENIABLY BRILLIANT” THE TIMES TICKETS £22

Recommended for ages 15 and above

Derngate

Jack Jones farewell tour FRI 17 MAY 7.30PM

Double Grammy Award-winner Jack Jones brings his swinging renditions of contemporary pop and rock, as well as classic standards, to Northampton on his Farewell Tour. Jones will charm audiences with his wit, elegance and vocal splendour in a show featuring all his greatest hits including Wives And Lovers, Love Boat, Impossible Dream and The Race Is On. “JONES IS A BONA FIDE LEGEND” THE GUARDIAN TICKETS £30.50 £28.50

Derngate

Lee nelson SAT 18 MAY 7.30PM

Lee Nelson, star of TV’s Lee Nelson’s Well Good Show and Lee Nelson’s Well Funny Show, brings his brand new stand-up show to Royal & Derngate. Strap yourself in for a night of unmissable entertainment with the irrepressible Nelson when he presents his unique take on the world, complete with hilarious audience interaction.

Special guest appearances include Dr Bob and Jason Bent.

TICKETS £23.50

Recommended for ages 18 and above

Box Office 01604 624811 www.royalandderngate.co.uk

Royal Original Theatre Company and Birdsong Productions PRESENT

HHHHH Whatsonstage.com

“Captures both the pain and the pity of a war that almost defies comprehension” THE GUARDIAN

Mon 13 – sat 18 may A mesmerising story of love, courage and sacrifice is brought to the stage in this critically acclaimed version of Sebastian Faulks’s bestselling novel, an epic tale of love and war set both before and during the Great War. In pre-war France, a young Englishman, Stephen Wraysford, embarks on a passionate and dangerous affair with the beautiful Isabelle Azaire that turns their world upside down.

As the war breaks out over the idyll of his former life, Stephen must lead his men through the carnage of the Battle of the Somme.

Faced with the unprecedented horror of the war Stephen clings to the memory of Isabelle as his world explodes around him.

Directed by Alastair Whatley, this brand new adaptation marks the very first touring production of the play. It is performed by a dynamic ensemble company including award-winning actress Sarah Jayne Dunn (Drop Dead Gorgeous, Hollyoaks).

“FANTASTIC THEATRE... A SUPERBLY CRAFTED PRODUCTION” THE STAGE “The play poignantly intermingles ghosts of past and present, and fully expresses the black poetry of this carnage... and the landscape it inhabits” THE INDEPENDENT

Box Office 01604 624811 www.royalandderngate.co.uk

Eves 7.45pm Thu & Sat Matinees 2.30pm Wed 15 May 7.45pm & Thu 16 May 2.30pm Thu 16 May 7.45pm TICKETS Mon – Thu Eves & Sat Matinee £24.50 £20.50 £19.50 £15.50 £9.50 Fri & Sat Eves £25.50 £22.50 £21.50 £17.50 £11.50 Thu Matinee £31.50 £15.50 £9.50

2 for 1 on top 3 prices (Mon Eve), £3 off top 3 prices at other times (excl. Fri Eve, Sat Eve & Thu Mat)

21

Royal

Box Office 01604 624811 www.royalandderngate.co.uk

Dancing At Lughnasa

by Brian Friel

Fri 24 May – Sat 15 June Rural Donegal, 1936. The Mundy sisters cry, laugh and dance together, at a time when life is simple but making ends meet seems impossibly hard.

During a summer when their missionary brother returns from Africa a changed man and the Mundy’s are gifted their first wireless radio, relationships are tested, social conventions challenged and the doctrines of the church clash with the spirit of a Pagan past. Dreams of love crumble as dusk sets on the life the sisters knew.

Director Richard Beecham Designer Naomi Dawson Lighting Designer Lee Curran Sound Designer & Composer Jon Nicholls Choreographer Quinny Sacks Eves 7.45pm (excl. Tue 28 May 7pm) Thu & Sat Matinees 2.30pm (excl. Sat 25 May) Tue 11 Jun 7.45pm Wed 12 Jun 7.45pm & Thu 13 Jun 2.30pm Thu 13 Jun 7.45pm TICKETS Mon – Sat Eves £24 £22 £19 £13 (Premium Seats £28) Thu & Sat Matinees £19 £13 (Premium Seats £20)

Told through the eyes of seven-year old Michael, Brian Friel’s Olivier and Tony Award-winning play is a magical, moving, memory-story filled with humour, tenderness and the longing of unfulfilled lives.

Richard Beecham returns to Royal & Derngate to direct after his critically acclaimed productions of Terrence Rattigan’s In Praise of Love and Charlotte Jones’ Humble Boy.

“Richard Beecham’s moving and enormously enjoyable production packs a powerful emotional punch” Mail on Sunday on In Praise of Love Box Office 01604 624811 www.royalandderngate.co.uk

2 for 1 on top 2 prices (Fri 24 May), £3 off top 3 prices at other times (excl. Mats)

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Post Show Talk Back Mon 3 June

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Y ED IT IT IL M B LI ILA A AV

DERNGATE

Bill Bailey Qualmpeddler

Wed 22 & Fri 31 May 8pm

Bill Bailey had doubts about the modern world, but these have now grown into qualms... This show has the all classic Bill Bailey elements, trademark musical mash-ups, multi-lingual riffs, films, songs, philosophising and silliness on a grand scale. Plus one amazing owl.

“He’s a genius, full stop” THE WEST AUSTRALIAN TICKETS £26

Recommended for ages 15 and above

DERNGATE

MIKE OLDFIELD’S TUBULAR BELLS FOR TWO FRI 24 MAY 8PM

With just four hands and four feet between them, multi-instrumentalists Daniel Holdsworth and Aidan Roberts race through the entire score of Mike Oldfield’s Tubular Bells, leaving you on the edge of your seat.

“A VIRTUOSO PERFORMANCE FROM TWO MUSICIANS AT THE TOP OF THEIR GAME” HHHHH EDINBURGH EVENING NEWS TICKETS £21

Derngate

WE’LL MEET AGAIN FAREWELL TOUR

MON 27 MAY 2.30PM

Don’t miss your last chance to experience the fun and nostalgia of We’ll Meet Again. This afternoon show features a new programme and is presented by Duggie Chapman MBE. A range of talented performers recall the wonderful comedy radio stars of the period and bring to life the songs of Vera Lynn, Gracie Fields and Bing Crosby, amongst others, complemented by the evocative music of the Martyn St James band.

TICKETS £13.50

Various

Behind the curtain TUE 28 & WED 29 MAY 11AM & 1PM

Join our Resident Storyteller, Jo Blake Cave, for an engaging and entertaining storytelling performance and backstage tour. As well as exploring the unseen areas of Royal & Derngate, Jo will guide you on a narrative journey, exploring the colourful history of our theatre and discovering how our Made In Northampton productions are created.

“JO ENTHRALLED US ALL WITH HER BRILLIANT STORYTELLING SKILLS” MAWSLEY COFFEE CLUB TICKETS £13, £20 including afternoon tea

Box Office 01604 624811 www.royalandderngate.co.uk

Please contact us if you would like to arrange an exclusive tour. Max. 18 people per group. This tour is not suitable for those with access requirements.

Derngate

FRI 7 – SUN 9 JUNE Celebrities On Ice is a brand new variety show for all the family, presenting the world renowned International Ice Stars, some familiar ice skating professionals from ITV’s Dancing On Ice and of course, the final and main ingredient – the celebrities.

Hosted by national treasure Christopher Biggins, the show features special guests Gareth Thomas, Matt Lapinskas and Beth Tweddle from the current series of Dancing On Ice, celebrity ice skater Kyran Bracken and the irrepressible Chico, with more guests to be announced.

Choreographed by Phil Winston and seven times British champion Steven Cousins, you will be dazzled by breathtaking and extravagant skating routines, as well as death-defying aerial acrobats, juggling, circus tricks, singing, audience participation and laughter in abundance.

Box Office 01604 624811 www.royalandderngate.co.uk

Featuring Beth Tweddle, Gareth Thomas, Matt Lapinskas, Kyran Bracken and Chico

Fri 8pm Sat 2.30pm & 8pm Sun 1.30pm & 5.30pm TICKETS £31 £21

25

DERNGATE

Reginald D Hunter IN THE MIDST OF CRACKERS THU 30 MAY 8PM Following two previous sell-out UK tours, Reginald D Hunter – a regular guest on TV’s Live At The Apollo and Have I Got News For You – is back with his own unique blend of humour in a brand new show.

“SIMPLY EXHILARATING. THIS IS COMEDY OF A RARE SCOPE”

HHHH THE TIMES TICKETS £25

Recommended for ages 16 and above

Royal

RUDI LICKWOOD And HIS COMEDY CHUMS SUN 16 JUNE 8PM

Join host Rudi Lickwood (Channel 4’s Get Me The Producer and BBC2’s Funny Business) for this Father’s Day special as he introduces a knock out line up, including Slim (BBC2’s A Force) and Adam Ethan Crow (BBC’s Comic Relief and ITV’s Stand Up Comedy Heroes), plus the comedy queen with big issues, Glenda Jaxson, and the hilariously subversive Christian Schulte-Loh. TICKETS £12.50

Recommended for ages 18 and above Doors open at 7pm

Derngate

ROYAL PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA

LAST NIGHT OF THE DERNGATE PROMS 2013 SUN 16 JUNE 7.30PM

This extravaganza of Proms favourites will feature music from the finest classical composers, from Tchaikovsky to Sibelius, alongside the very best of British, including Elgar’s Pomp And Circumstance March No.1, Arne’s Rule, Britannia!, Parry’s Jerusalem and much more.

TICKETS £32.50 £30 £26 £24 £20 £14

£68

Derngate

NMPAT SCHOOLS MUSIC AND ARTS FESTIVAL Wed 19 & Thu 20 JUNE 7PM

Enjoy two evenings of presentations by some of Northamptonshire’s talented young performers, representing schools and colleges from across the county, alongside choirs and rock bands. This event is presented by 4 Learning Associates, in association with Northamptonshire Music And Performing Arts Trust.

TICKETS £8.50

Box Office 01604 624811 www.royalandderngate.co.uk

THE BORN FREE TOUR FRI 21 JUNE 8PM

Queen’s legendary guitarist Brian May teams up with West End leading lady Kerry Ellis (Wicked, We Will Rock You) for a stunning candlelit, acoustic show.

The Born Free Tour fuses Kerry’s beautiful voice and Brian’s awe-inspiring guitar performances, which include new arrangements of songs he has specially chosen to be sung by Kerry – all in support of the Born Free Foundation.

Derngate

BRIAN MAY & KERRY ELLIS

TICKETS £39

RUN!

Thu 27 – SAT 29 JUNE EVES 6PM, THU MATINEE 1.30PM, SAT MATINEE 2PM

Royal

ROYAL & DERNGATE YOUTH THEATRE

It is Ella’s last day at primary school and her last chance to show that she is more than just the shy new girl in the area. If only her mum could watch her race, but that looks as likely as her team winning gold.

This funny, heart-warming musical follows a class of year 6 students and their teacher, Mr Budge, in a story of falling over, getting up and carrying on. Written by Lisa Evans especially for Royal & Derngate Youth Theatre’s musical companies to perform, and with guest performances from several local school choirs, this exciting new production brings an extra special sports day to life this summer.

Cheer and cry for your favourite team as they compete at cycling, archery, the high jump, gymnastics and plenty of running! Is it really the taking part that matters most? Join us and find out.

TICKETS £8

THU 4 JULY 7.30PM

Now in its fourth year on the road, this show offers rock ‘n’ roll fans a high energy concert packed with over 40 hits from the rock ‘n’ roll legends, including Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis, Buddy Holly, Roy Orbison, the Big Bopper and Eddie Cochran.

Derngate

ROCK ‘N’ ROLL PARADISE

Backed by the Paradise Band, a superbly talented cast deliver ‘the show that never was’ from the golden era of rock ‘n’ roll.

TICKETS £23 £19

Box Office 01604 624811 www.royalandderngate.co.uk

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Derngate

Jason Manford FIRST WORLD PROBLEMS FRI 5 & SAT 6 JULY 8PM Enjoy an evening of hilarious anecdotes, comic misunderstandings and audience banter with Jason Manford (Live At The Apollo, Michael McIntyre’s Comedy Roadshow), delivered with his charm and teasingly intelligent wit.

“LAID-BACK CHARM & SHARP TURN OF PHRASE YOU CAN’T MANUFACTURE” HHHH DAILY TELEGRAPH TICKETS £23.50

Royal

ROYAL & DERNGATE ACTORS COMPANY

LOVEPLAY

SAT 6 JULY 2PM & 8.15PM Join our community group, The Actors Company, on a search for love through time and history. Witty, sexual and emotionally powerful, Loveplay, written

by Moira Buffini and directed by Helen Barnett, follows a trail of seductions, transactions and romantic encounters that take place on the same square of land over 2000 years. Meet Georgian gents, Elizabethan artists, Romans and free loving hippies and explore the complexities of love in another time.

TICKETS £8

Recommended for ages 16 and above

Derngate

NMPAT SUMMER FESTIVAL OF MUSIC Sun 7 JULY

NEW GENERATION CONCERT 2PM

SECOND GENERATION CONCERT 7.30PM

Performances by the county’s Junior Orchestra, Junior Wind Orchestra, Jazz 3, Junior Brass Ensemble, Junior String Orchestra, Junior Girls Choir, and County Boys Choir.

Performances by the county’s Training Orchestra, Training Wind Orchestra, Jazz 2, Training Brass Band, Training String Orchestra, Training Guitar Ensemble and Training Girls’ Choir.

TICKETS £14 £12 £10

Students/Under 16s £8

Royal

ROYAL & DERNGATE YOUTH THEATRE

HIS DARK MATERIALS

PART ONE: WED 10 JULY 7.30PM & SAT 13 JULY 2.30PM PART TWO: THU 11 JULY 7.30PM & SAT 13 JULY 7.30PM

Performed in two parts, our Classic and Contemporary companies bring you His Dark Materials, based on the novels by Philip Pullman and adapted by Nicholas Wright. A theatrical feast of puppetry, ensemble performances and a multi-media set, join 60 performers as they encounter rebellious angels, souleating spectres and armoured bears on a quest for wisdom, freedom and love.

TICKETS £8 per performance (£12 if buying both parts together)

Box Office 01604 624811 www.royalandderngate.co.uk

Derngate

L A N r FI ou T

MON 8 – SAT 13 JULY Following a sell-out West End run and an Olivier Award nomination, the sizzling show Midnight Tango comes to Northampton. Vincent Simone and Flavia Cacace have dazzled television audiences for seven series of the BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing with their stunning Tango routines. Now they have created their own live show: a breathtaking evening that brings all the drama, sensuality and elegance of this most exciting of dance forms to life.

Vincent and Flavia’s mesmerising choreography and fiery chemistry command the floor with explosive tango routines, gravity-defying moves and feather-light footwork. Set in a late night bar in downtown Buenos Aires, this sensational show features live music and some of the finest Tango dancers in the world.

Eves 7.30pm, Thu & Sat Matinees 2.30pm TICKETS Mon - Thu Eves £30 £26.50 £22.50 £17.50 £15.50 Thu & Sat Matinees £26 £24 £16 Fri & Sat Eves £32.50 £29.50 £24.50 £20.50 £16.50

2 for 1 on top 3 prices (Mon Eve), £3 off top 3 prices at other times (excl. Sat Eve & Thu Mat)

“A FANTASTIC NIGHT OF PURE DANCE MAGIC” HEAT MAGAZINE Box Office 01604 624811 www.royalandderngate.co.uk

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IMAGE: Northampton Chronicle & Echo

Summer Schools

MUSICAL MASH-UP MON 22 – FRI 26 JULY 10AM – 4PM Join us this summer for a week of musical theatre mash-ups! You will work with experienced theatre professionals to create a brand new musical inspired by some of your favourite West End shows. Improve your singing, dancing and acting skills as you prepare for a world premiere performance on the Derngate stage.

Whether you are an enthusiastic beginner or a seasoned performer, our creative team will help you to set your own challenges so this exciting new project offers something for everyone.

Don’t miss out!

Recommended for ages 11-16.

MATILDA

BY ROALD DAHL MON 29 July – FRI 2 August 10AM – 3PM Join us at Royal & Derngate for a Dahl-ightful week as we create our own adaptation of Roald Dahl’s much loved story, Matilda.

Young actors will transform into some of our favourite Roald Dahl characters over the week, playing pranks, making friends and developing their telekinetic abilities, all leading to a performance of Matilda at the end of the week!

This summer school will provide a fun, relaxed and safe environment where children can discover their individual talents whilst working together towards a performance of which they can feel really proud.

Recommended for ages 6-12.

Earlier drop‑offs and later pick-ups are available on request. For more information, please contact Natalie Diddams on 01604 655777 or email youththeatre@royalandderngate.co.uk Cost £100 per participant

HALF-TERM DANCE RESIDENCY TUE 28 – FRI 31 MAY Royal & Derngate and Dance4 are offering young people aged 13 to 18 years the chance to take part in an intensive dance residency led by choreographer Mickael ‘Marso’ Riviere. For more information please email arts@royalandderngate.co.uk COST £50

Box Office 01604 624811 www.royalandderngate.co.uk

SUMMER STORYTELLING EVENTS Programmed in collaboration with the Crick Crack Club

At The Black Bottom Club, George Row, Northampton

Thu 28 March 8PM

Other

FROM THE ODD

Tim Ralphs brings together a set of stories randomly curated from the contents of a Sheffield skip and selected by you, the audience, on the night.

This is a spectacular re-imagining of some of the most familiar material in myth, folktale and nursery rhyme.

At The Black Bottom Club, George Row, Northampton

Thu 30 May 8PM

Other

TRICKSTER

Dominic Kelly embarks on an audacious tale of a young boy’s trickery and deceit; a tale where truth and hearsay, history, folktale and myth flicker like shadows in sunshine. Come and journey on a trickster’s side of the road.

“Compelling, funny and heartbreaking” The Times

THU 29 AUGUST 7.30PM

Three lost souls, one smoggy city and a boatful of delicious raw fish; storyteller Debs Newbold and musician Laurel Swift tell an epic tale of loss and regret that is uplifting, defiantly modern and belly-shakingly funny.

“A WHIRLWIND... FLYING THE FLAG FOR STORYTELLING” fRoots

Underground

UNDER HER SKIN

Further storytelling events will take place on Thu 31 October and Thu 12 December. Look out for more information at www.royalandderngate.co.uk TICKETS £9.50

Recommended for ages 18 and above

Storytelling Masterclass

STORYTELLING NOW: WHAT PLACE DOES STORYTELLING HAVE IN CONTEMPORARY SOCIETY?

HOW DO YOU CLIMB A GLASS MOUNTAIN?: CRACKING OPEN THE FAIRYTALE

THU 3 OCTOBER

THU 21 NOVEMBER 7.30PM–9.30PM

7.30PM

Our Resident Storyteller Jo Blake Cave will explore the contemporary manifestation of storytelling, raising questions about its form, function and future, whilst telling stories along the way. Suitable for all, especially to those working with stories in any capacity.

This exciting workshop will look specifically at that alluring, uncanny, otherworldly-world of the fairytale. We will question where, why and to whom fairytales might be told and will learn storytelling techniques. Some basic knowledge of storytelling is required.

COST Free – book your place at Box Office

COST £20

Box Office 01604 624811 www.royalandderngate.co.uk

Underground

Storytelling LECTURE FOLLOWED BY Q&A

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March Mon 18 Mar Tue 19 Mar Wed 20 Mar Thu 21 Mar Fri 22 Mar Sat 23 Mar Sun 24 Mar Mon 25 Mar Tue 26 Mar Wed 27 Mar Thu 28 Mar Fri 29 Mar Sat 30 Mar April Tue 02 Apr Wed 03 Apr Thu 04 Apr Fri 05 Apr Sat 06 Apr Sun 07 Apr Mon 08 Apr Tue 09 Apr Wed 10 Apr Thu 11 Apr Fri 12 Apr Sat 13 Apr Sun 14 Apr Mon 15 Apr Tue 16 Apr Wed 17 Apr Thu 18 Apr Fri 19 Apr Sat 20 Apr Mon 22 Apr Tue 23 Apr Wed 24 Apr Thu 25 Apr Fri 26 Apr Sat 27 Apr Sun 28 Apr Mon 29 Apr Tue 30 Apr May Wed 01 May Thu 02 May Fri 03 May Sat 04 May Sun 05 May Mon 06 May Tue 07 May Wed 08 May Thu 09 May Fri 10 May Sat 11 May Sun 12 May Mon 13 May Tue 14 May Wed 15 May Thu 16 May Fri 17 May Sat 18 May Wed 22 May Fri 24 May Sat 25 May Mon 27 May Tue 28 May Wed 29 May Thu 30 May Fri 31 May June Sat 01 Jun Mon 03 Jun Tue 04 Jun Wed 05 Jun Thu 06 Jun Fri 07 Jun Sat 08 Jun Sun 09 Jun Mon 10 Jun Tue 11 Jun Wed 12 Jun Thu 13 Jun Fri 14 Jun Sat 15 Jun Sun 16 Jun Wed 19 Jun Thu 20 Jun Fri 21 Jun

DERNGATE The Mousetrap The Mousetrap The Mousetrap The Mousetrap The Mousetrap The Mousetrap Kirill Karabits Conducts Russian Masterpieces

TIME 7.30pm 7.30pm 2.30pm/7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 2.30pm/7.30pm 7.30pm

PAGE 8 8 8 8 8 8 9

Joe Brown

7.30pm

9

DERNGATE

TIME

PAGE

Chris & Pui Roadshow

11am & 1.30pm

9

One Night With Joan Limelight Theatre School

8pm 1pm & 5pm

9 12

High Society High Society High Society High Society High Society Alexander Shelley Conducts Scheherazade Derren Brown Derren Brown Derren Brown Derren Brown Derren Brown Derren Brown

7.30pm 2.30pm/7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 2.30pm/7.30pm 7.30pm 8pm 8pm 8pm 8pm 8pm 8pm

13 13 13 13 13 16 16 16 16 16 16 16

The Illegal Eagles That'll Be The Day

7.30pm 7.30pm

16 16

Birds Of A Feather DERNGATE Birds Of A Feather Birds Of A Feather Birds Of A Feather Birds Of A Feather

7.30pm TIME 2.30pm/7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 2.30pm/7.30pm

17 PAGE 17 17 17 17

Soul Sister Soul Sister Soul Sister Soul Sister Soul Sister Soul Sister Shaolin Warriors

7.30pm 7.30pm 2.30pm/7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 2.30pm/7.30pm 7.30pm

19 19 19 19 19 19 20

Sean Lock

8pm

20

Jack Jones Farewell Tour Lee Nelson Bill Bailey Mike Oldfield's Tubular Bells For Two

7.30pm 7.30pm 8pm 8pm

20 20 24 24

We'll Meet Again

2.30pm

24

Reginald D Hunter Bill Bailey DERNGATE

8pm 8pm TIME

26 24 PAGE

Celebrities On Ice Celebrities On Ice Celebrities On Ice

8pm 2.30pm/8pm 1.30pm/5.30pm

25 25 25

Last Night Of The Derngate Proms 2013 NMPAT Schools Music And Arts Festival NMPAT Schools Music And Arts Festival Brian May & Kerry Ellis

7.30pm 7pm 7pm 8pm

26 26 26 27

Box Office 01604 624811 www.royalandderngate.co.uk

ROYAL Mr Whatnot Mr Whatnot Mr Whatnot Mr Whatnot Mr Whatnot Mr Whatnot

TIME 7.45pm 7pm 7.45pm 2.30pm/7.45pm 7.45pm 2.30pm/7.45pm

PAGE 6 6 6 6 6 6

Mr Whatnot Mr Whatnot Mr Whatnot Mr Whatnot Mr Whatnot Mr Whatnot ROYAL Mr Whatnot Mr Whatnot Mr Whatnot Mr Whatnot Mr Whatnot

7.45pm 7.45pm 7.45pm 2.30pm/7.45pm 7.45pm 2.30pm/7.45pm TIME 7.45pm 7.45pm 2.30pm/7.45pm 7.45pm 2.30pm/7.45pm

6 6 6 6 6 6 PAGE 6 6 6 6 6

National Theatre Connections National Theatre Connections National Theatre Connections National Theatre Connections National Theatre Connections

1.30pm 1.30pm 1.30pm 1.30pm 1.30pm

12 12 12 12 12

A Midsummer Night's Dream A Midsummer Night's Dream A Midsummer Night's Dream A Midsummer Night's Dream A Midsummer Night's Dream A Midsummer Night's Dream A Midsummer Night's Dream A Midsummer Night's Dream A Mini Midsummer Night's Dream A Midsummer Night's Dream A Midsummer Night's Dream ROYAL A Midsummer Night's Dream A Midsummer Night's Dream A Midsummer Night's Dream A Midsummer Night's Dream

7.45pm 7.45pm 7.45pm 7pm 7.45pm 2.30pm/7.45pm 7.45pm 2.30pm/7.45pm 7.15pm 7.45pm 5pm TIME 7.45pm 2.30pm/7.45pm 7.45pm 2.30pm/7.45pm

14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 18 14 14 PAGE 14 14 14 14

A Midsummer Night's Dream A Midsummer Night's Dream A Midsummer Night's Dream A Midsummer Night's Dream A Midsummer Night's Dream

7.45pm 7.45pm 2.30pm/7.45pm 7.45pm 2.30pm/7.45pm

14 14 14 14 14

Birdsong

7.45pm 7.45pm 7.45pm 2.30pm/7.45pm 7.45pm 2.30pm/7.45pm

21

Dancing At Lughnasa Dancing At Lughnasa Dancing At Lughnasa Dancing At Lughnasa Dancing At Lughnasa Dancing At Lughnasa Dancing At Lughnasa ROYAL Dancing At Lughnasa Dancing At Lughnasa Dancing At Lughnasa Dancing At Lughnasa Dancing At Lughnasa Dancing At Lughnasa Dancing At Lughnasa

7.45pm 7.45pm 7.45pm 7pm 7.45pm 2.30pm/7.45pm 7.45pm TIME 2.30pm/7.45pm 7.45pm 7.45pm 7.45pm 2.30pm/7.45pm 7.45pm 2.30pm/7.45pm

22 22 22 22 22 22 22 PAGE 22 22 22 22 22 22 22

Dancing At Lughnasa Dancing At Lughnasa Dancing At Lughnasa Dancing At Lughnasa Dancing At Lughnasa Dancing At Lughnasa Rudi Lickwood

7.45pm 7.45pm 7.45pm 2.30pm/7.45pm 7.45pm 2.30pm/7.45pm 8pm

22 22 22 22 22 22 26

Thu 27 Jun Fri 28 Jun Sat 29 Jun July Thu 04 Jul Fri 05 Jul Sat 06 Jul Sun 07 Jul Mon 08 Jul Tue 09 Jul Wed 10 Jul Thu 11 Jul Fri 12 Jul Sat 13 Jul September Fri 06 Sep Sat 07 Sep Mon 09 Sep Tue 10 Sep Wed 11 Sep Thu 12 Sep Fri 13 Sep Sat 14 Sep Mon 16 Sep Tue 17 Sep Wed 18 Sep Thu 19 Sep Fri 20 Sep Sat 21 Sep Mon 23 Sep Tue 24 Sep Wed 25 Sep Thu 26 Sep Fri 27 Sep Sat 28 Sep Mon 30 Sep October Tue 01 Oct Wed 02 Oct Thu 03 Oct Fri 04 Oct Sat 05 Oct Tue 08 Oct Wed 09 Oct Thu 10 Oct Fri 11 Oct Sat 12 Oct Sun 13 Oct Mon 21 Oct Tue 22 Oct Wed 23 Oct Thu 24 Oct Fri 25 Oct Sat 26 Oct Mon 28 Oct Tue 29 Oct Wed 30 Oct Thu 31 Oct Fri 01 Nov Sat 02 Nov Tue 05 Nov Thu 07 Nov Sat 09 Nov Mon 11 Nov Tue 12 Nov Wed 13 Nov Thu 14 Nov Fri 15 Nov Sat 16 Nov Tue 19 Nov Wed 20 Nov Thu 21 Nov Tue 26 Nov Wed 27 Nov Thu 28 Nov DATE Fri 22 Mar Sat 23 Mar Sun 24 Mar Wed 3 Apr Thu 4 Apr Fri 5 Apr Sat 6 Apr Sun 7 Apr Fri 19 Apr Mon 29 Apr Tue 30 Apr Wed 1 May

DERNGATE Rock 'N' Roll Paradise Jason Manford Jason Manford NMPAT Summer Festival Of Music Midnight Tango Midnight Tango Midnight Tango Midnight Tango Midnight Tango Midnight Tango DERNGATE

TIME 7.30pm 8pm 8pm 2pm/7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 2.30pm/7.30pm 7.30pm 2.30pm/7.30pm TIME

PAGE 27 28 28 28 29 29 29 29 29 29 PAGE

Peter Schaufuss Ballet – Romeo And Juliet Peter Schaufuss Ballet – Romeo And Juliet Peter Schaufuss Ballet – Romeo And Juliet Peter Schaufuss Ballet – Swan Lake Peter Schaufuss Ballet – Swan Lake Peter Schaufuss Ballet – Swan Lake

7.30pm 7.30pm 2.30pm/7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 2.30pm/7.30pm

36 36 36 36 36 36

The Hitchhiker's Guide To The Galaxy

8pm

37

Stewart Lee CATS DERNGATE CATS CATS CATS CATS CATS Richard Alston Dance Company Richard Alston Dance Company An Evening With Petula Clark

8pm 7.30pm TIME 7.30pm 2.30pm/7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 2.30pm/7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 8pm

37 38 PAGE 38 38 38 38 38 39 39 37

Alison Moyet Dinosaur Zoo Ray Mears Vampires Rock

8pm 12pm/2pm 7.30pm 7.30pm

40 40 41 41

Sixties Gold

7.30pm

41

Thriller Live Thriller Live Thriller Live Thriller Live Thriller Live Thriller Live Paul Merton's Impro Chums One Night Of Elvis Puppetry Of The Penis Buddy Buddy Buddy Buddy Buddy Buddy Nabucco Aida Ed Byrne Fascinating Aida Ready Steady Cook Live!

7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 5pm/8.30pm 2.30pm/7.30pm 8pm 7.30pm 8pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 2.30pm/7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 2.30pm/7.30pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 8pm 8pm 7.30pm

44 44 44 44 44 44 44 44 45 46 46 46 46 46 46 47 47 48 48 48

UNDERGROUND Screaming Blue Murder Shoot/Get Treasure/Repeat Shoot/Get Treasure/Repeat Crazy Hair Crazy Hair Crazy Hair Crazy Hair Crazy Hair Screaming Blue Murder The Flash Theatre Festival The Flash Theatre Festival The Flash Theatre Festival

TIME 8.15pm 10.45am 10.45am 11am/2pm 11am/2pm 11am/2pm 11am/2pm 11am/2pm 8.15pm Times vary Times vary Times vary

PAGE 51 8 8 11 11 11 11 11 51 18 18 18

DATE Thu 2 May Fri 3 May Fri 3 May Fri 10 May Fri 17 May Thu 29 Aug Thu 3 Oct Mon 28 Oct Tue 29 Oct Wed 30 Oct Thu 21 Nov

Run! Run! Run! ROYAL

1.30pm/6pm 6pm 2pm/6pm TIME

27 27 27 PAGE

Loveplay

2pm/8.15pm

28

His Dark Materials His Dark Materials

7.30pm 7.30pm

28 28

His Dark Materials ROYAL To Sir, With Love To Sir, With Love To Sir, With Love To Sir, With Love To Sir, With Love To Sir, With Love To Sir, With Love To Sir, With Love To Sir, With Love To Sir, With Love To Sir, With Love To Sir, With Love To Sir, With Love To Sir, With Love To Sir, With Love To Sir, With Love To Sir, With Love To Sir, With Love To Sir, With Love To Sir, With Love

2.30pm/7.30pm TIME 7.45pm 7.45pm 7.45pm 7pm 7.45pm 2.30pm/7.45pm 7.45pm 7.45pm 7.45pm 5pm 7.45pm 2.30pm/7.45pm 7.45pm 7.45pm 7.45pm 7.45pm 7.45pm 2.30pm/7.45pm 7.45pm 2.30pm/7.45pm

28 PAGE 34 34 34 34 34 34 34 34 34 34 34 34 34 34 34 34 34 34 34 34

ROYAL

TIME

PAGE

Gilbert & Sullivan Group

3pm

37

Neville Staple An Evening With Bobby Davro

7.30pm 7.45pm

40 40

Go Back For Murder Go Back For Murder Go Back For Murder Go Back For Murder Go Back For Murder Go Back For Murder Mansfield Park Mansfield Park Mansfield Park Mansfield Park Mansfield Park Mansfield Park

7.45pm 7.45pm 7.45pm 2.30pm/7.45pm 7.45pm 2.30pm/7.45pm 7.45pm 7.45pm 7.45pm 2.30pm/7.45pm 7.45pm 2.30pm/7.45pm

42 42 42 42 42 42 43 43 43 43 43 43

Aliens Love Underpants Aliens Love Underpants Ardal O'Hanlon

11am/2pm 11am/2pm 7.45pm

45 45 45

Sandi Toksvig

7.45pm

48

The Wind In The Willows The Wind In The Willows

2.15pm 2.15pm

49 49

TIME Times vary Times vary 8.15pm 7pm 8.15pm 7.30pm 7.30pm 11am/2pm 11am/2pm 11am/2pm 7.30pm

PAGE 18 18 51 18 51 31 31 41 41 41 31

UNDERGROUND The Flash Theatre Festival The Flash Theatre Festival Screaming Blue Murder Treasure Island Screaming Blue Murder Under Her Skin Storytelling Now Once In A Blue Moon Once In A Blue Moon Once In A Blue Moon How Do You Climb A Glass Mountain?

Box Office 01604 624811 www.royalandderngate.co.uk

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Royal

Box Office 01604 624811 www.royalandderngate.co.uk

To Sir, With Love based on the novel by E R Braithwaite adapted by Ayub Khan Din

Fri 6 – Sat 28 September “I believe one should fight for what one believes. Provided one is absolutely sure one is absolutely right.”

Based on E R Braithwaite’s autobiography, To Sir, With Love is an inspirational story of courage and hope. Ricky Braithwaite, a Cambridge graduate and ex-RAF fighter pilot arrives in London and soon learns what it is to be black in post‑war England.

Turned down for job after job in his chosen profession as an electronic engineer, Ricky begins his first teaching post in a tough but progressive East End school.

Supported by an enlightened headmaster, the determined teacher turns teenage rebelliousness into self respect, contempt into consideration and hate into love – and on the way, Ricky himself learns that he has more in common with his students than he had realised.

Made into a major film in 1967 starring Sidney Poitier with a title song made famous by Lulu, this new stage adaptation by Ayub Khan Din (East Is East) is peppered with the songs and dance of the late ’40s, a time of austerity like our own, where love and hope win through against all the odds.

Featuring local young people in the cast, this production will tour the country after its world premiere in Northampton.

“MOVING AND INSPIRING” NEW YORK TIMES Box Office 01604 624811 www.royalandderngate.co.uk

Director Mark Babych Eves 7.45pm (excl. Tue 10 Sep 7pm & Tue 17 Sep 5pm) Thu & Sat Matinees 2.30pm (excl. Sat 7 Sep) School-friendly performance Tue 17 Sep 5pm Tue 24 Sep 7.45pm Wed 25 Sep 7.45pm & Thu 26 Sep 2.30pm Thu 26 Sep 7.45pm TICKETS Mon – Sat Eves £24 £22 £19 £13 (Premium Seats £28) Thu & Sat Matinees £19 £13 (Premium Seats £20)

2 for 1 on top 2 prices (Fri 6 Sep), £3 off top 3 prices at other times (excl. Mats)

Subscribe & Save

Save up to 20% per ticket.

See page 60 for details.

Post Show Talk Back Mon 16 September

35

Derngate

PETER SCHAUFUSS BALLET presents two classic ballets

Romeo And Juliet Swan Lake “Achingly beautiful choreography”

HHHHH SUNDAY EXPRESS on Romeo and Juliet

MON 9 – SAT 14 SEPTEMBER Olivier Award and Evening Standard Award-winning choreographer, director and dance legend, Peter Schaufuss, presents two of the world’s best-loved classic ballets, Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake and Sir Frederick Ashton’s Romeo And Juliet.

British dance maker, Sir Frederick Ashton, created one of the most revered and history-making dance versions of Romeo And Juliet in 1955. His original creation was for the Royal Danish Ballet and his original Juliet was the mother of Peter Schaufuss. On his death in 1988 Ashton bequeathed the work to Peter Schaufuss, who is dedicated to recreating the essence of Ashton’s genius work.

“Makes mesmerising watching” THE INDEPENDENT on Romeo and Juliet

Swan Lake, part of the company’s Tchaikovsky Trilogy Series, takes on the classic story with Schaufuss’ modern twist. Schaufuss pushes boundaries with this show, and it makes for a memorable adaptation of a classic.

“Peter Schaufuss’ Tchaikovsky generates excitement wherever it is staged” THE OBSERVER on swan lake “This immensely talented man knew what he wanted to do, grabbed the chance and did it” SUNDAY TELEGRAPH on swan lake

Box Office 01604 624811 www.royalandderngate.co.uk

Mon – Wed Romeo And Juliet Thu – Sat Swan Lake Eves 7.30pm, Wed & Sat Matinees 2.30pm TICKETS Mon – Fri Eves £33 £31 £29.50 £25.50 £21.50 Wed Matinee £29 £27 £25.50 £21.50, £17.50 Sat Eve & Matinee £34 £32 £30.50 £26.50 £22

£3 off top 3 prices (excl. Sat Eve & Wed Mat)

SAT 21 September 8PM

The Hitchhiker’s Guide To The Galaxy returns with its ground-breaking stage production, based on the novels by Douglas Adams. It is a radio show like you’ve never seen before, packed with laughter, really wild sound effects, a live band, HD projections and drinks with extremely silly names.

Derngate

THE HITCHHIKER’S GUIDE TO THE GALAXY RADIO SHOW LIVE!

“IT’S A BIG THUMBS UP” HHHH DAILY MAIL TICKETS £26.50 £22.50 £21.50 £19.50

£3 off top 3 prices

MUCH A STEW ABOUT NOTHING Sat 28 September 8pm The acclaimed writer and comedian, Stewart Lee, presents a mixed stew of unrelated ideas in preparation for his 2014 TV series of Stewart Lee’s Comedy Vehicle. See it live so that you can begin the backlash ahead of transmission.

Derngate

Stewart Lee

“HE’S THE MOST EXCITING COMEDIAN IN THE COUNTRY, BAR NONE” HHHH THE TIMES TICKETS £19

Recommended for ages 14 and above

Royal

60 YEARS OF THE NORTHAMPTON GILBERT & SULLIVAN GROUP IN PERFORMANCE SAT 5 OCTOBER 3PM The Northampton Gilbert & Sullivan Group proudly presents a Diamond Jubilee celebration concert, tracing the group’s history of performing the topsy-turvey works of Mr Gilbert and Mr Sullivan.

TICKETS £12.50

Thu 10 October 8PM

Petula Clark is one of the bestselling British female artists in recording history, having sold over 68 million records worldwide. Join her for a wonderful evening of entertainment as she plays songs from her new album, Cut, Copy, Me, as well as a selection from her stunning back catalogue of hits, interspersed with anecdotes about her incredible, seven decade-long career.

TICKETS £45 £35 £27.50 £19.50

Derngate

AN EVENING WITH PETULA CLARK

VIP package £89 Includes pre-show drinks reception with a glass of bubbly, a seat in the first four rows, a signed photo and a VIP Laminate

Box Office 01604 624811 www.royalandderngate.co.uk

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TM © 1981 RUG LTD

Derngate

Mon 30 September – sat 5 October Andrew Lloyd-Webber’s extraordinary, record‑breaking, smash‑hit musical CATS returns to Royal & Derngate for one week only.

Adapted from T S Eliot’s Old Possum’s Book Of Practical Cats, this wonderful blend of fantasy, drama and romance is set on the night that the Jellicle Cats meet for the Jellicle Ball in a sparkling fusion of music, dance and verse.

Eves 7.30pm, Wed & Sat Matinees 2.30pm

With an amazing musical score that includes the timeless Memory, spectacular set designs, stunning costumes and breathtaking choreography, CATS is a magical musical like no other. One of the longest-running shows in West End and Broadway history, it has enchanted audiences all around the world. Now you have the chance once again to experience this legendary musical phenomenon.

Thu 3 Oct 7.30pm

“SHOWS DON’T COME MUCH BETTER THAN THIS – IT’S ABSOLUTELY BRILLIANT” DAILY EXPRESS

Wed 2 Oct 2.30pm & 7.30pm

TICKETS Mon – Thu Eves £35.50 £33.50 £29.50 £26.50 £20.50 Wed Matinee £29 £27 £23 £20 £15 Fri & Sat Eves & Sat Matinee £38 £36 £32 £28 £24

2 for 1 on top 2 prices (Mon Eve), £3 off top 3 prices at other times (excl. Sat Eve & Wed Mat)

Box Office 01604 624811 www.royalandderngate.co.uk

Derngate

“ALL THE DANCERS ATE UP THE WORK AS IF RELISHING THIS RARE SLICE OF PASSION AND DRAMA” THE INDEPENDENT

RICHARD ALSTON DANCE COMPANY TUE 8 – WED 9 OCTOBER 7.30PM Celebrating this year’s centenary of composer Benjamin Britten, Richard Alston has especially revived his exhilarating Rumours, Visions.

The music is Britten’s masterpiece Les Illuminations and both music and dance paint a vivid picture of the wild young genius Arthur Rimbaud, whose absinthe and drug-fuelled youth erupted in a brutally intense love affair with the older poet Paul Verlaine.

Rumours, Visions depicts images from the turbulent life of the young poet, a genius and a misfit in equal part. He saw himself as a visionary who needed to be outside the normality of respectable society. “I alone”, he cried, “hold the key to this wild parade.”

Box Office 01604 624811 www.royalandderngate.co.uk

“RUMOURS, VISIONS ENDS THE EVENING ON AN IMPASSIONED HIGH” THE HERALD

TICKETS £23 £20 £13

Glass of Champagne & Chocolates £15

39

Royal

Neville staple Fri 11 October 7.30PM

The ‘original rudeboy’ and former member of The Specials, The Coventry Automatics, FunBoy3 and The Special Beat, Neville Staple is a forerunner of the ska movement and continues to thrill audiences with his own excellent band. See them perform live in a concert that includes some classic hits, Neville’s own material and arrangements of his very favourite, old school ska numbers.

TICKETS £20

Royal

AN EVENING WITH BOBBY DAVRO SAT 12 OCTOBER 7.45PM

Enjoy an evening of entertainment with veteran comedian Bobby Davro. A man of many talents – comedian, impressionist, game‑show host and actor – Bobby soared to fame in the 1980s with TV shows such as Bobby Davro On The Box and Bobby’s Sketch Pad. He made his straight acting debut in EastEnders as loveable rogue Vinnie Monks, and has appeared on Never Mind The Buzzcocks and Dancing On Ice. He returns to Northampton following his outstanding performances in Royal & Derngate’s last two Christmas pantomimes.

TICKETS £18

Recommended for ages 16 and above

Derngate

Alison Moyet Sat 12 October 8PM

Musical icon Alison Moyet has achieved sales of more than 20 million, both as a solo artist and half of influential duo Yazoo. Join her for a for a captivating concert in which she performs songs from her new album, the minutes, as well as the significant electronic material in her back catalogue.

“A musical resurrection in the making” The Huffington Post TICKETS £33.50 £25

Derngate

DINOSAUR ZOO

Sun 13 October 12pm & 2pm Cutting edge theatre company Erth offer children the chance to experience pre-historic creatures as they have never seen them before, up close and personal. Observe and interact with life-like dinosaurs in this imaginative live show, but watch out – not all of these Jurassic giants are as tame as they seem!

“A RARE AND PLEASURABLE WORK THAT MANAGES TECHNICAL BRILLIANCE, CULTURAL INSIGHT AND ENCHANTMENT ALL IN ONE GO” SYDNEY MORNING HERALD Recommended for ages 3 and above TICKETS £13.50 Danger Zone Seats £16

Box Office 01604 624811 www.royalandderngate.co.uk

MON 21 OCTOBER 7.30PM Known for his popular TV shows Tracks, Extreme Survival and World Of Survival, Ray Mears is recognised worldwide as an authority on bushcraft and survival, having acquired his unique skills through his work in some of the world’s most uninhabitable and harshest environments.

Come and be fascinated, captivated and entertained by Ray, as he shares stories, photographs and film taken from over thirty years of surviving the wilderness and its colourful wildlife.

TICKETS £26 £23.50

Derngate

RAY MEARS

£75

THE 10TH ANNIVERSARY TOUR TUE 22 OCTOBER 7.30PM

Celebrating 10 years of Vampires Rock, Steve Steinman returns as the evil Baron Von Rockula. With its comical story line, this rock spectacular includes an impressive stage set and stunning pyrotechnics. Steve is joined by a cast of superb singers and dancers and a formidable live band as they blast their way through some of the greatest ever rock anthems, including We Will Rock You, Bat Out Of Hell, Highway To Hell, Since You’ve Been Gone and many more.

Derngate

VAMPIRES ROCK

TICKETS £23

FEATURING GERRY & THE PACEMAKERS, THE SEARCHERS, P.J. PROBY, THE FORTUNES, BRIAN POOLE, CHIP HAWKES Fri 25 October 7.30PM

The star line-up for Sixties Gold – the 50th anniversary tour – brings all the dynamic excitement and impact of the most influential era in British popular music, generated by the same sensational artistes 50 years on. The sounds of the ’60s never die, they simply groove away, and you will be tapping your feet and dancing in the aisles just like you always did.

Derngate

Sixties Gold

TICKETS £30.50 £28.50

Mon 28 – WED 30 OCTOBER 11am & 2pm It’s the moon’s birthday! We are having a party and you are invited...

But during the party the moon will disappear. Join the party guests on their search for clues to the moon’s whereabouts, as they journey through strange lands and meet a host of curious characters along the way. Incorporating exciting dance, live music and audience interaction, Wriggle Dance Theatre offers children aged three to six years and their grown-ups a truly magical experience.

TICKETS £6.50

Underground

Once In A Blue Moon

Children’s Activity Offer Food & Fun £4.50

Box Office 01604 624811 www.royalandderngate.co.uk

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BILL KENWRIGHT BY SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT WITH AGATHA CHRISTIE LTD PRESENTS

“A COMPANY THAT CLEARLY UNDERSTANDS AND LOVES CHRISTIE’S WORK” THE EXPRESS

MON 21 – SAT 26 OCTOBER Now in its eighth year, the Agatha Christie Theatre Company presents a thrilling production of the queen of crime’s classic Go Back For Murder.

Carla Le Marchant learns a disturbing family secret; her mother, Caroline Crale, died in prison after being convicted for poisoning her father. Caroline leaves an intriguing legacy in the form of a letter professing her innocence and, believing this to be true, Carla is determined to clear her mother’s name. Enlisting the help of Justin Fogg, the son of her mother’s defence lawyer, Carla searches out all the players from her tragic history and brings them back to the scene of the crime to uncover the truth.

Suspects, secrets and red herrings abound in this thrilling new production. It is a classic ‘whodunit’, packed with intrigue, murder and suspense, which follows the company’s hugely successful The Hollow, The Unexpected Guest, And Then There Were None, Spider’s Web, Witness For The Prosecution, Verdict, and Murder On The Nile.

Box Office 01604 624811 www.royalandderngate.co.uk

Eves 7.45pm, Thu & Sat Matinees 2.30pm Wed 23 Oct 7.45pm & Thu 24 Oct 2.30pm Thu 24 Oct 7.45pm TICKETS Mon – Thu Eves £26.50 £22.50 £21.50 £17.50 Fri & Sat Eves £28.50, £25.50 £23.50 £19.50 Thu & Sat Matinees £22.50 £19.50 £17.50

£3 off top 3 prices (excl. Sat Eve & Thu Mat)

Previous cast photos

Royal

Royal A Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds production

Mansfield Park

by Jane Austen

HHHHH THE OXFORD TIMES

HHHH DAILY TELEGRAPH

MON 28 OCTOBER – SAT 2 NOVEMBER There certainly are not so many men of large fortune in the world as there are pretty women to deserve them.

Unceremoniously uprooted from her humble family home, intelligent, young Fanny Price finds herself in the bustling, aristocratic household of her uncle, Sir Thomas Bertram, where she is buffeted from one crisis to the next. Throughout her turmoil, one thing remains a constant – her love for the generous, worthy and steadfast Edmund Bertram.

Will this love be her salvation? Or will she be forced to marry the charming and persuasive Henry Crawford for connections and wealth alone?

Adapted by Tim Luscombe, whose other acclaimed Jane Austen adaptations include Northanger Abbey and Persuasion, directed

by Colin Blumenau, and designed by Kit Surrey, Mansfield Park is a spellbinding re-telling of Jane Austen’s captivating novel.

“A SHEER DELIGHT” BRITISH THEATRE GUIDE

Eves 7.45pm, Thu & Sat Matinees 2.30pm Wed 30 Oct 7.45pm & Thu 31 Oct 2.30pm Thu 31 Oct 7.45pm TICKETS Mon – Thu Eves £25.50 £22.50 £21.50 £17.50 £10 Fri & Sat Eves £27.50 £24.50 £23.50 £19.50 £12 Thu & Sat Matinees £17 £10

£3 off top 3 prices (excl. Sat Eve & Thu Mat)

“YOU CANNOT FAIL TO BE SEDUCED BY THIS CAPTIVATING PRODUCTION” THE OXFORD TIMES Box Office 01604 624811 www.royalandderngate.co.uk

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Derngate

PAUL MERTON’S IMPRO CHUMS Tue 5 November 8PM

Paul Merton and his world renowned Impro Chums – Mike McShane, Lee Simpson, Richard Vranch and Suki Webster – will create a new and unique comedy show, based entirely on suggestions from the audience, their finely honed improvisational skills and an almost manic compulsion to show off.

Special guests may also be joining them, including Niall Ashdown, Andy Smart and Steve Steen.* “THE FINEST COMPONENTS OF THE IMPROV ART” HHHHH Daily Mirror *Four performers will join Paul for each show.

Derngate

Thriller Live

MON 28 OCTOBER – SAT 2 NOVEMBER Mon – Thu 7.30pm, Fri 5pm & 8.30pm Sat 2.30pm & 7.30pm Moonwalking its way around the world, director Gary Lloyd’s Thriller Live brings to life the sensational dancing and distinctive sound of Michael Jackson and the Jackson 5.

In a career spanning 40 years, Michael Jackson sold an unparalleled 750 million records worldwide and the album Thriller is still the world’s best-selling recording of all time. This spectacular concert is packed with over two hours of his hit songs and pays homage to the world-class spectacle of his legendary live performances.

HHHH HHHH EVENING STANDARD

WHATSONSTAGE.COM

Expect your favourite songs delivered by an exceptionally talented cast and live band, including the smash hits I Want You Back, ABC, Can You Feel It, Off The Wall, The Way You Make Me Feel, Smooth Criminal, Beat It, Billie Jean, Dirty Diana, They Don’t Care About Us, Thriller and many more.

“YOU CAN’T BEAT IT!” EVENING STANDARD “AN EXUBERANT BLAST!” DAILY MAIL “THE HITS JUST KEEP ON COMING” DAILY TELEGRAPH TICKETS Mon – Wed Eves £27 £24

Sat Matinee £24 £21

Thu – Sat Eves & Fri Matinee £30 £27

£75 Fri & Sat Matinees only £3 off (excl. Fri & Sat Eves)

Derngate

One Night Of Elvis THU 7 NOVEMBER 7.30PM

Back by popular demand, Lee ‘Memphis’ King takes you through Elvis’ entire career, including the 1950s rock ‘n’ roll years, the ’68 Comeback Special and the Vegas years. Relive the passion, charisma and talent of a music legend as Lee performs with incredible authenticity, accompanied by backing singers, a world class band and evocative large screen projections.

“AS CLOSE TO SEEING THE KING HIMSELF PERFORM AS WE COULD EVER HOPE TO SEE” AUDIENCE MEMBER TICKETS £20

Box Office 01604 624811 www.royalandderngate.co.uk

Photo of previous cast member

TICKETS £22

SAT 9 NOVEMBER 8PM

In an evening of comic brilliance, two strapping Australians perform the hilarious ‘ancient art of genital origami’, complete with large screen video projections. See it to believe it.

Derngate

Puppetry Of The Penis

“DOES EXACTLY WHAT IT SAYS ON THE PACKET... UNBELIEVABLE!” THE FINANCIAL TIMES “HYSTERICAL, THE AUDIENCE SCREAM AND SQUEAL” MAIL ON SUNDAY TICKETS £21.50 £19.50

BRITISH BOOK AWARDS

BIG WOODEN HORSE & NICK BROOKE LIMITED PRESENT

Aliens Love Underpants MON 11 & TUE 12 NOVEMBER 11AM & 2PM

Royal

“THIS FANTASTIC RHYMING STORY IS SIMPLY PANTASTIC!”

Please note this show features nudity.

Recommended for ages 16 and above

Aliens love underpants In every shape and size, But there are no underpants in space, So here’s a big surprise!

This zany and hilarious tale, based on the best-selling children’s book by Claire Freedman and Ben Cort, is delightfully brought to life on stage for the very first time.

Adapted and directed by Adam Bampton-Smith, this fresh and funny production will delight the whole family with its stunning effects, madcap action, original music and, of course, lots of aliens. You’ll laugh your pants off!

COMPETITION Can you draw us a picture of an alien in its underpants? Post us your drawing, with your name, age and address on the back or hand in to our Box Office by Friday 18 October for a chance to win Aliens Love Underpants goodies!

Aliens Love Underpants © Claire Freedman and Ben Cort 2007

TICKETS £13

Recommended for ages 3 and above Running time: 50 mins, no interval

WED 13 NOVEMBER 7.45PM

Lurking beneath Father Ted star Ardal O’Hanlon’s mild-mannered demeanour resides a sharp and probing comic brain. Sometimes thoughtful, sometimes silly, but always punchy, he has tickled audiences all over the world. In his new tour he talks about not just the things that matter but also about the things that don’t matter at all. Which covers pretty much everything.

Royal

Ardal O’Hanlon

“CHARM, INTELLIGENCE AND FABULOUS PHRASE-MAKING” THE GUARDIAN TICKETS £21

Box Office 01604 624811 www.royalandderngate.co.uk

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Derngate

“JOYOUS! I LOVE THIS SHOW” SUNDAY EXPRESS

Eves 7.30pm, Wed & Sat Matinees 2.30pm Wed 13 Nov 2.30pm & 7.30pm

Mon 11 – Sat 16 November The sensational, multi-award-winning West End rock ‘n’ roll show Buddy is returning to Northampton.

Experience the drama, passion and excitement as a cast of phenomenally talented actors and musicians tell Buddy Holly’s story, from his meteoric rise to fame to his final, legendary performance at The Surf Ballroom in Clear Lake, Iowa.

Featuring two terrific hours of the greatest songs ever written, including That’ll Be The Day, Oh Boy, Rave On, La Bamba, Chantilly Lace, Johnny B. Goode, Raining In My Heart, Everyday, Shout and many more, this show is just Peggy Sue-perb!

“THIS SHOW IS AN ABSOLUTE MUST. IF YOU HAVEN’T SEEN THE BRILLIANT MUSICAL BUDDY YET, BUY YOUR TICKET NOW!” THE SUN “THE SHOW YOU WILL NEVER FORGET” DAILY MAIL

Box Office 01604 624811 www.royalandderngate.co.uk

Thu 14 Nov 7.30pm TICKETS Mon – Thu Eve & Sat Matinee £29 £26 £22 £17 Fri & Sat Eves £32 £29 £24 £19 Wed Matinee £26 £24 £18 £16

2 for 1 on top 2 prices (Mon Eve) £3 off top 3 prices at other times (excl. Wed Mat & Sat Eve)

£90

Derngate OPERA & BALLET INTERNATIONAL PRESENTS TWO ELLEN KENT PRODUCTIONS

“A TERRIFIC PRODUCTION OF VERDI’S EPIC TALE”

“VISUALLY AND VOCALLY GRIPPING FROM START TO FINISH”

LIVERPOOL DAILY POST

THE INDEPENDENT

DIRECTED BY ELLEN KENT AND FEATURING THE CELEBRATED CHISINAU NATIONAL OPERA AND NATIONAL PHILHARMONIC, WITH INTERNATIONAL SOLOISTS

VERDI’S

VERDI’S

TUESDAY 19 NOVEMBER 7.30PM

WED 20 NOVEMBER 7.30PM

Ellen Kent returns to the very first opera she produced with this lavish new production of Verdi’s epic tale.

Directed by Ellen Kent, this new production brings the dramatic grandeur of ancient Egypt to the stage in Verdi’s classic love story.

NABUCCO

AIDA

Laced with revenge, destruction and jealousy, the story of Nabucco follows the plight of the Hebrews as they are forced from their homeland into exile by the Babylonian King Nabucco.

Featuring the haunting and melodic Chorus Of The Hebrew Slaves, this production is traditionally staged and features magnificent sets and costumes, plus amazing lighting and stage effects. Starring international soloists and the full Chisinau National Opera And National Philharmonic, Nabucco promises an evening to remember.

“WORTH GOING A LONG WAY TO HEAR” MANCHESTER EVENING NEWS

Brimming with war, jealousy and revenge, Aida tells the tragic tale of the beautiful Ethiopian slave girl, Aida, and her love for the Egyptian hero, Radames.

With opulent sets and costumes and stunning fire effects, this traditional production is both visually and musically enchanting. It features some of the greatest pieces of music Verdi ever wrote, including the well known arias Celest Aida, Ritorna Vincitor and the great chorus piece, The Triumphal March.

“BURSTING WITH COLOUR, GRANDEUR AND WEALTH” EDINBURGH EVENING NEWS “TRULY SPECTACULAR” MANCHESTER EVENING NEWS

Sung in Italian with English surtitles.

With stunning fire effects

Sung in Italian with English surtitles.

TICKETS £35 £32 £28 £23 £19

Glass of Champagne & Chocolates £15

Box Office 01604 624811 www.royalandderngate.co.uk

£3 off top 3 prices

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Royal

Sandi Toksvig MY VALENTINE

FRI 15 NOVEMBER 8PM Sandi Toksvig – comedian, novelist, actor, broadcaster, show-off and international treasure – continues her smash-hit tour. The long-standing host of Radio 4’s News Quiz and Excess Baggage and regular QI panellist, Sandi will be performing her uniquely witty evening of stand-up, stories and fascinating facts.

“LADEN WITH LAUGHS” GUARDIAN TICKETS £21

Sandi will be signing copies of her novel, Valentine Grey, after the show.

Derngate

ED BYRNE

ROARING FORTIES THU 21 NOVEMBER

8PM

A self-confessed ‘miserable old git’ since the age of 23, Ed Byrne is now in his forties and embracing middle age with open arms. Come join him as he truly comes of age and gives out his clarion cry, “I am in my forties, hear me roar!”

“COMEDY’S HOLY GRAIL... GO SEE!” HHHH THE SUNDAY TIMES “BYRNE IS AT THE TOP OF HIS GAME” HHHH THE SUNDAY TELEGRAPH TICKETS £23.50

Recommended for ages 12 and above

Derngate

Fascinating Aida TUE 26 NOVEMBER 8PM

Newly invigorated by over 10 million YouTube hits, comedy trio and global internet sensation Fascinating Aida take to the road once again with their brand new show, to celebrate 30 years of being at the top of the cabaret tree.

“A DELIGHT” HHHHH THE TIMES “CABARET HEAVEN” HHHHH METRO TICKETS £19

Derngate

READY STEADY COOK LIVE! WED 27 NOVEMBER 7.30PM

One of Britain’s most successful TV cookery shows, Ready Steady Cook, is coming live to Royal & Derngate. Featuring chef Lesley Waters (pictured), who appeared in over 500 editions of the programme, top TV chefs, a celebrity host and the iconic ‘Quickie bag’, the show will see the ‘green peppers’ and ‘red tomatoes’ battling it out before you have the chance to vote for your favourite. Will green peppers or red tomatoes triumph? Vote and decide at Ready Steady Cook Live!

TICKETS £26

Box Office 01604 624811 www.royalandderngate.co.uk

Royal PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE Wed 27 Nov 2.15pm Thu 28 Nov 2.15pm Fri 29 Nov 2.15pm 7.15pm Sat 30 Nov 1.15pm 5.15pm Sun 1 Dec No Performances Mon 2 Dec No Performances Tue 3 Dec 10.30am 2.15pm Wed 4 Dec 10.30am 2.15pm Thu 5 Dec 10.30am 2.15pm Fri 6 Dec 2.15pm 7.15pm Sat 7 Dec 1.15pm 5.15pm Sun 8 Dec 1.15pm 5.15pm Mon 9 Dec No Performances Tue 10 Dec 10.30am 2.15pm Wed 11 Dec 10.30am 2.15pm Thu 12 Dec 10.30am 2.15pm Fri 13 Dec 10.30am 2.15pm Sat 14 Dec 1.15pm 5.15pm Sun 15 Dec 1.15pm 5.15pm Mon 16 Dec No Performances Tue 17 Dec 2.15pm 7.15pm Wed 18 Dec 2.15pm 7.15pm Thu 19 Dec 2.15pm 7.15pm Fri 20 Dec No Performances Sat 21 Dec 1.15pm 5.15pm Sun 22 Dec 1.15pm 5.15pm Mon 23 Dec 2.15pm 7.15pm Tue 24 Dec 1.15pm 5.15pm Wed 25 Dec No Performances Thu 26 Dec 1.15pm 5.15pm Fri 27 Dec 2.15pm 7.15pm Sat 28 Dec 1.15pm 5.15pm Sun 29 Dec 1.15pm 5.15pm Mon 30 Dec 1.15pm 5.15pm Tue 31 Dec 1.15pm 5.15pm Wed 1 Jan No Performances Thu 2 Jan 2.15pm 7.15pm Fri 3 Jan 2.15pm 7.15pm Sat 4 Jan 1.15pm 5.15pm Sun 5 Jan 1.15pm 5.15pm

EARLY BIRD OFFER

Wed 27 November 2013 – Sun 5 January 2014

Book before 1 Sep and save £1 per ticket

“Believe me, my young friend there is nothing, absolutely nothing, half so much worth doing as simply messing about in boats.”

For Christmas 2013, Kenneth Grahame’s classic children’s story is brought lovingly to life on the Royal stage in a charming tale of friendship and adventure for all the family.

Poop! Poop! The peace of the countryside is shattered as Toad takes to the open road and his new-found love of the motor‑car leads him into endless trouble. Join shy Mole, faithful Ratty and sensible old Badger as they try to get their bombastic friend back onto the straight and narrow.

This nostalgic but lively adventure takes the four friends from the tranquil riverbank (and the joys of picnics and boating) to the sinister Wild Wood and the battle for Toad Hall, meeting carol‑singing field mice and wicked weasels along the way.

Don’t miss this delightful Christmas show – a festive treat for all ages!

“SENSATIONAL... MISS IT AT YOUR PERIL” HHHHH WHATSONSTAGE.COM on A Christmas Carol (2012) Box Office 01604 624811 www.royalandderngate.co.uk

Tue 17 Dec 7.15pm

Wed 18 Dec 7.15pm

& Thu 19 Dec 2.15pm Tue 2 Jan 2.15pm

Relaxed show Wed 11 Dec 2.15pm See page 63 for more details TICKETS Green show Pay What You Can (First time bookers only) Blue & Pink shows £21 £19 £16 £10 Blue shows

£2.50 off top 3 prices

15+ £18, 40+ £17, 60+ £16

Pink shows

4 off top 3 prices

15+ £16, 40+ £15, 60+ £14

10.50 (one teacher’s seat £ free with every 10 tickets)

£70 Previews £5 off first 3 performances £4 off top 3 prices on all shows

49

Derngate

FRI 6 DECEMBER 2013 – SUN 5 January 2014

Mon 30 Dec 7pm

Join us for our enchanting family pantomime – a laugh‑a‑minute extravaganza that boasts stunning sets, fabulous costumes and incredible visual effects.

A traditional and unmissable part of the festive season, Royal & Derngate’s annual pantomime offers high-quality and value‑for‑money entertainment and continues to receive rave reviews from the public and press alike.

Book early to ensure you secure the best seats – and be spellbound by the spectacular Sleeping Beauty.

“ONE OF THE MOST ENJOYABLE PANTOS ON SHOW ANYWHERE IN THE UK THIS CHRISTMAS” NORTHAMPTON CHRONICLE & ECHO* “THIS AMAZING SHOW IS THE BEST PANTOMIME I HAVE SEEN” DAVENTRY EXPRESS* PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE Fri 6 Dec 7pm Sat 7 Dec 1pm 5pm Sun 8 Dec 1pm 5pm Mon 9 Dec No Performances Tue 10 Dec 2pm 7pm Wed 11 Dec 2pm 7pm Thu 12 Dec 2pm 7pm Fri 13 Dec 2pm 7pm Sat 14 Dec 1pm 5pm Sun 15 Dec 1pm 5pm Mon 16 Dec No Performances Tue 17 Dec 2pm 7pm Wed 18 Dec 2pm 7pm Thu 19 Dec 2pm 7pm Fri 20 Dec No Performances Sat 21 Dec 1pm 5pm

PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE Sun 22 Dec 1pm 5pm Mon 23 Dec 2pm 7pm Tue 24 Dec 1pm 5pm Wed 25 Dec No Performances Thu 26 Dec 1pm 5pm Fri 27 Dec 2pm 7pm Sat 28 Dec 1pm 5pm Sun 29 Dec 1pm 5pm Mon 30 Dec 2pm 7pm Tue 31 Dec 1pm 5pm Wed 1 Jan No Performances Thu 2 Jan 2pm 7pm Fri 3 Jan 2pm 7pm Sat 4 Jan 1pm 5pm Sun 5 Jan 1pm 5pm *Quotes refer to Cinderella 2012/13

Box Office 01604 624811 www.royalandderngate.co.uk

Thu 12 Dec 7pm & Fri 27 Dec 2pm

Sat 14 Dec 1pm & Fri 27 Dec 7pm

TICKETS Green show £14 Purple shows £22 £20 £18 Gold shows £23 £21 £19 Purple shows

£3 off

15+ £18, 40+ £17, 60+ £15

£10.50 (one teacher’s seat free with every 10 tickets) Uniform rate £12 Applicable performances: Sat 7 Dec 1pm, Wed 11 Dec, Thu 12 Dec 7pm, Fri 13 Dec 7pm, Thu 2 Jan 7pm, Fri 3 Jan 7pm Available for groups of 20+ from accredited youth organisations and uniformed personnel when booking from a recognised office. Proof of affiliation may be required.

Uniforms do not need to be worn at the performance.

Senior rate £15 Applicable performances: Thu 2 Jan 2pm & Fri 3 Jan 2pm All prices are frozen until Sun 1 September and are subject to increase thereafter.

£3 off purple shows £1 off gold shows

Underground

YOU CAN ALSO BOOK FOR...

Alive@DELAPRE

Fri 22 March

Fri 3 May

James Dowdeswell Helen Arney Johnny Candon Compere Dan Evans

Noel James Sally-Anne Hayward Luke Toulson Compere Dan Evans

Fri 19 April

Fri 17 May

Mary Bourke Marc Lucero Ria Lina Compere Dan Evans

Josh Howie Jen Brister Joe Rowntree Compere Dan Evans

PAUL WELLER

LD T SO U O

Catch the last of Royal & Derngate’s Friday night comedy club on the Underground stage, featuring stand up from some of comedy’s rising stars, before this season comes to an end.

Alive At Delapre is a three day music event taking place on Fri 19 - Sun 21 July. Enjoy performances from top artists at a purpose‑built open-air arena in the historic parkland setting of Delapre Park, a beautiful heritage site right in the heart of Northampton.

To find out more visit www.aliveatdelapre.co.uk

FRI 19 JULY Gates open 6PM

TICKETS £41.90

THE WANTED FEATURING SPECIAL GUESTS, LAWSON SAT 20 JULY Gates open 6PM

TICKETS £31.50

JAMES MORRISON Doors 7.45pm

SUN 21 JULY Gates open 6PM

Show 8.15pm Look out for information on our new season at www.royalandderngate.co.uk Line up may be subject to change Recommended for ages 16 and above

TICKETS £11.50 in advance, £12.50 on the door

TICKETS £37.60 All performances take place at Delapre Park, London Road, Northampton, NN4 8AW. Please note: All under 16s must be accompanied by an adult aged 18 or above at all times. These are standing only events.

Tickets will be posted out 14 days before the event. Tickets will not be available to purchase at the park.

Box Office 01604 624811 www.royalandderngate.co.uk

51

EAT AND DRINK PACKAGES To make your visit extra special, we offer indulgent Eat and Drink packages on certain shows.

This season, why not treat yourself to: Champagne and Chocolates A glass of Champagne each and a box of chocolates to share for two people for £15.

See Richard Alston Dance Company (page 39), plus Nabucco and Aida (page 47).

Girls Night Out A bottle of wine to share and a bag of sweets each for two people for £15.

See Birds Of A Feather (page 17) and Soul Sister (page 19).

Children’s Activity – Food and Fun A children’s lunch bag with activities and colouring pencils for £4.50 per child.

See Chris & Pui (page 9), Crazy Hair (page 11) and Once In A Blue Moon (page 41).

OPEN 10AM-5.30PM MON-SAT, AND PRE-SHOW

Box Office 01604 624811 www.royalandderngate.co.uk

10% off all food and drinks

The Corby Cube, George Street, Corby, NN17 1QG

Visit Corby’s arts venue for a wide range of entertainment including film screenings, theatre performances and Get Involved sessions.

Show highlights this season include:

Suggs – My Life Story Wed 24 April 7.30pm

The Searchers

Thu 25 April 7.30pm

Josh Widdicome And Seann Walsh Double Bill Thu 9 May 7.30pm

An Evening With The Stars Of Strictly Come Dancing

Barb Jungr: Stockport To Memphis

Reduced Shakespeare Company

Jimeoin: What?!

Adrian Edmondson And The Bad Shepherds

We’re Going On A Bear Hunt

Starring Pasha Kovalev & Katya Virshilas Thu 23 May 7.30pm

Tue 26 Nov 7.30pm

Fri 24 May 7.30pm

Fri 29 Nov 7.30pm

Fri 11 Oct 7.30pm

Wed 4 – Sun 8 Dec Wed, Thu & Fri 11am & 2pm, Sat & Sun 11am, 2pm & 4pm

For information on shows, Get Involved or the upcoming film programme at The Core, contact the Ticket Office on 01536 470 470.

Box Office 01604 624811 www.royalandderngate.co.uk

53

YOUNG PEOPLE

Royal & Derngate Youth Theatre gives young people aged 5 to 21, with all levels of experience, the opportunity to train, perform and have fun in a professional theatre environment. We offer weekly workshops throughout term-time and produce a number of productions every year.

During the holiday periods we offer creative projects, theatre trips and drama courses.

So whether you like to act, dance or sing, or simply want to make new friends, visit www.royalandderngate.co.uk/youththeatre for more information.

In addition, we regularly deliver a variety of creative projects for young people throughout the year in a range of art forms such as visual art, urban music and storytelling. These projects aim to empower, engage and inspire young people and provide new skills and enjoyment for those involved.

This season we are already busy with our Youth Theatre productions, which include Mark Ravenhill’s cycle of plays Shoot/Get Treasure/Repeat (see page 8) and Run!, a heart-warming musical especially written for us by Lisa Evans (see page 27).

For more information please contact Erica Martin on 01604 655757 or email arts@royalandderngate.co.uk

FAMILIES

Royal & Derngate is a family friendly theatre with a range of activities for children and their grown-ups to enjoy together. We have regular shows and family events in our Underground spaces, offering the very young a perfect introduction to theatre.

This season, shows include the enchanting theatre company Bamboozle’s Crazy Hair (see page 11), the return, by popular demand, of CBeebies’ Chris & Pui (see page 9) and Dinosaur Zoo (see page 40), which is packed with life‑like dinosaurs.

Family activities include workshops with the acclaimed Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and Easter and half-term drama courses. See page 10 for more details.

We want to make your visit as easy as possible, so baby changing, high chairs, a microwave to heat baby food and spare nappies are all available.

Special family meal deals in our café Eat And Drink and family ticket offers make Royal & Derngate the perfect place for a family day out.

To discuss how we can meet the needs of your family contact Erica Martin on 01604 655757 or email arts@royalandderngate.co.uk

“MORE THAN VALUE FOR MONEY, PROFESSIONALLY CARRIED OUT AND A LOVELY INTRODUCTION INTO THE THEATRE WORLD” MELANIE RIDGWAY, PARENT OF YOUTH THEATRE MEMBER, ON OUR DRAMA COURSE, THE WITCHES, IN 2012

Box Office 01604 624811 www.royalandderngate.co.uk

Birthday parties at Royal & Derngate “THE CHILDREN ALL HAD A GREAT TIME AND IT WAS VERY EASY FOR ME TOO!” NICKY HOLDEN, PARENT See page 10 for more information.

g invoel t ved

COMMUNITY

Royal & Derngate offer many ways in which you can get involved, including: Masterclasses Clowning with Cal McCrystal – Wed 27 March 7-9pm Shakespeare’s Comedies with Helen Barnett – Wed 15 May 7-9pm Storytelling with Jo Blake Cave – Thu 21 November 7.30-9.30pm The Actors Company A weekly group for adults, offering skill-based workshops, performance opportunities and fun throughout the year.

The Play’s The Thing If you enjoy going to the theatre and like to discuss these plays with like minded people, then you may like to consider joining this friendly group.

The Writers Forum – Dissect. Debate. Develop.

‘Read and feed’ sessions are held on a monthly basis, where writers will discuss and develop work in progress through critical feedback.

Royal & Derngate Community Choir A lively weekly choir group with opportunities to perform at the theatre and at special events.

For further information about any of the above, call Erica Martin on 01604 655757 or email erica.martin@royalandderngate.co.uk

SCHOOLS

Royal & Derngate works closely with local schools to design and deliver a wide variety of bespoke projects, complementing and developing classroom learning across a range of subjects.

Our exciting and stimulating workshops empower young people to achieve outcomes relevant to English, Drama and Performing Arts. We work hard to offer projects for all kinds of students and young people, including gifted and talented young people, those with specific educational needs and those who have been excluded from mainstream education. Our current programme includes: • Show-specific workshops for both produced and programmed work, which can be tailored to support learning in a variety of subjects • Bespoke, one-off creative projects designed around the needs of individual schools and students • School Partnership Programmes, where a year‑long programme (including tickets to shows, show‑specific workshops, backstage tours and much more) is designed on a school by school basis For more information about our work with schools and how we can support yours, please contact our Creative Projects Manager, Georgia Munnion, on 01604 655732 or email georgia.munnion@royalandderngate.co.uk

Behind The Curtain “OUR VISIT FAR EXCEEDED OUR EXPECTATIONS... WE HAD MUCH TO CHAT ABOUT AFTERWARDS” MAWSLEY COFFEE CLUB See page 24 for more information.

Box Office 01604 624811 www.royalandderngate.co.uk

“THE STUDENTS ARE ENJOYING THE ATTENTION AND ACTIVITIES IMMENSELY” MICHELLE READING, MALCOLM ARNOLD ACADEMY, ON OUR YOUTH MUSIC RESIDENCY FOR VULNERABLE STUDENTS IN 2012

55

Ways to Support royal & Derngate

Artistic Director’s Circle

From as little as £30, become a Friend and make fabulous savings throughout the year.

Benefits include: • Discounts, including £3 off to 2 for 1s (just look for symbol on our brochure pages) • No transaction or postage fee • Priority booking and brochure mailing • Advanced email information about shows going on sale • Free exchange facility • Local discounts including at Eat and Drink, St Giles Cheese and The Church Restaurant and Bar • Friends e-newsletter This season enjoy 2 for 1 offers on Mr Whatnot, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, The 39 Steps, High Society, Soul Sister, Birdsong and more!

Call Box Office today and see how you could save.

A Gold Supporter membership opens up a range of new opportunities for you to become more involved in the life of your theatre, while contributing towards our ongoing creative projects with children and young people in the community.

Our Gold Supporters enjoy all the benefits of a Friends membership, as well as the following:

This scheme directly supports the work we make for our stages. Membership includes a substantial donation to the theatre, but also brings with it unique benefits including: • An invitation to an annual dinner with our Artistic Director • The opportunity to join our Artistic Director to watch a Made In Northampton production and attend a post show discussion

• A dedicated personal booking service through our Development Department

• An opportunity to meet the cast of one of our Made In Northampton productions at a special reception

• Four complimentary Made In Northampton programmes per year

• Sneak previews of set and costume designs of an upcoming production

• Invitations to exclusive events and discussions, including networking events

• Invitations to special rehearsals

• Discounted room hire and hospitality opportunities

• A credit in all Made In Northampton programmes and on our supporters wall

Become a Gold Supporter for £150 per year. £100 of this will support creative project work, details of which can be found on page 54 and 55.

You will also receive all our Gold Supporters and Friends benefits.

Membership is £600 per person or £1,000 for joint members. If you are a UK taxpayer we can claim gift aid on the majority of this.

To join contact Jodie MorternDavies on 01604 655735 or email jodiemd@namtrust.co.uk

To join contact Jodie MorternDavies on 01604 655735 or email jodiemd@namtrust.co.uk

NAME A SEAT Sponsoring a seat in either the Royal or Derngate auditoria is a great way to celebrate a friend, colleague or family member, a birthday or an anniversary.

In return for your donation, you will be able to choose your seat, on which we will mount a plaque bearing the name of your choice, as well as listing the name in our Made In Northampton show programmes and on our website. You will have the opportunity to tell us a little about why you have chosen to name a seat, helping us to create an archive of memories from our dedicated audience members.

“WE DECIDED TO NAME A SEAT IN BOTH THE ROYAL & DERNGATE AUDITORIA TO FEEL PART OF THE THEATRE WE BOTH LOVE” DR JANE AND DR IAN APPLEYARD Naming a seat costs £250 for an individual and £500 for a business. For more information call our Development Officer Jodie Mortern-Davies on 01604 655735 or email jodiemd@namtrust.co.uk Seats are subject to availability

Box Office 01604 624811 www.royalandderngate.co.uk

BUSINESS CLUB By associating your company with Royal & Derngate, you will benefit from a host of commercial and marketing opportunities with a potential to reach 400,000 audience members a year.

We would like to thank our current Business Club Members for their ongoing support:

Membership can be specifically tailored to match your company requirements whether your priorities are corporate entertaining, brand awareness, staff incentives or fulfilling your corporate social responsibilities. There are many benefits of Business Club membership including free room hire, branding opportunities plus hospitality packages, and free tickets to entertain clients or reward staff.

“ROYAL & DERNGATE IS AN IDEAL PARTNER FOR THE HOLIDAY INN NORTHAMPTON. OUR CORPORATE CLIENTS LOOK FORWARD TO THE WARM HOSPITALITY PROVIDED BY THIS EXCELLENT VENUE” THE HOLIDAY INN

We would also like to thank our current Business Club Supporters:

Sponsorship Whether you are a company or an individual, there are many opportunities to support the work of Royal & Derngate. Sponsors can support: • • • • •

Orchestral performances Creative Project activity Our Youth Theatre A Made In Northampton show A season of world class productions

We can tailor-make a package for you to deliver commercial and marketing opportunities including: • P rofile in our brochure, mailed to 40,000 customers three times a year • Presence on our web pages, visited by 52,000 customers a month • Exposure to 400,000 audience members a year for Royal & Derngate work in Northampton and further afield • Branding opportunities throughout the building and in theatre programmes

For further information on ways to support us please call Jodie Mortern-Davies on 01604 655735 or email development@royalandderngate.co.uk

Box Office 01604 624811 www.royalandderngate.co.uk

57

Your event at royal & Derngate Our contemporary Derngate auditorium is an exceptionally versatile space that can be set to a range of formats. It is ideal for large‑scale conferences, product launches, exhibitions, trade shows, fashion shows, standing concerts, sports events, banquets, wedding receptions and dances.

Gala Dinner, 2011

“I can think of few arts complexes that induce such a rush of excitement on arrival” The Daily Telegraph

The University Of Northampton Fashion Show, 2010

The University Of Northampton Freshers’ Party, with Professor Green, 2012

Formula 1 Car Exhibition, 2012 Future Fund Hoedown, 2012

If you are interested in holding an event at Royal & Derngate please call Sue Roberts on 01604 655729 or email sue.roberts@royalandderngate.co.uk

Box Office 01604 624811 www.royalandderngate.co.uk

Weddings, civil partnerships and proposals Royal & Derngate’s inspiring, creative surroundings provide the perfect venue for fabulously romantic wedding ceremonies, civil partnerships and even proposals. We are a fully licensed venue with an expert team who are passionate about delivering events of the highest quality, so you can be sure that your day will be a truly unforgettable experience.

We are working in partnership with Sweet Events to offer you a bespoke wedding service. For more information, or to book your event, please call Sue Roberts on 01604 655729 or email weddings@royalandderngate.co.uk We look forward to celebrating with you.

Box Office 01604 624811 www.royalandderngate.co.uk

59

MADE IN NORTHAMPTON 2013 SUBSCRIPTION SEASON The 2013 Made In Northampton season is off to a great start, with One For The Road receiving four star reviews from a number of national press, and it is not too late to take advantage of our subscription packages.

Subscribe & Save GET THE BEST SEATS AT THE BEST PRICES Follow these simple steps to make your booking for the 2013 Subscription Season: 1. Decide which shows you would like to see. Don’t forget the more you see, the more you save – you will receive 20% off every ticket if you see all four remaining shows. Shows applicable to this package are Mr Whatnot, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Dancing At Lughnasa and To Sir, With Love.

2. Choose when you would like to see your shows (Evenings, Matinees or Previews) and which price band you would like to sit in, either Premium or A. Look at the individual show pages for the dates of each production.

3. Look at the prices in our subscription table below to see what you will pay.

4. Book your tickets in the usual way by calling 01604 624811, complete an online subscription form at www.royalandderngate.co.uk, or request a postal form from Box Office.

Benefits of subscribing include flexible payment options, no-quibble ticket exchange, 20% reduction on theatre programmes if you pre-book, and the chance to treat a friend by booking extra guest tickets at a discount. Call Box Office for more details.

4 play package 20% discount Price Band

Premium

A

3 play package 10% discount Premium

A

Guest tickets

ADULT Evenings

89.60

76.80

75.60

64.80

Matinees

64.00

60.80

54.00

51.30

21.60 17.10

Previews

73.60

60.80

62.10

51.30

17.10 19.80

CONCESSIONS

INDIVIDUAL TICKET PRICES Mon – Sat Eves £24 £22 £19 £13 (Premium £28) Thu & Sat Matinees £19 £13 (Premium £20), Groups of 8+ £15 (plus one free ticket with every 8 booked)

Evenings

83.20

70.40

70.20

59.40

Matinees

64.00

60.80

54.00

51.30

17.10

Previews

73.60

60.80

62.10

51.30

17.10

Previews £5 off first three performances

67.20

67.50

56.70

18.90

Under 26 Tickets £11

(all performances)

FRIEND & GOLD SUPPORTERS Evenings

80.00

Matinees

64.00

60.80

54.00

51.30

17.10

Previews

73.60

60.80

62.10

51.30

17.10

38.40

38.40

32.40

32.40

10.80

UNDER 26s All Performances

Box Office 01604 624811 www.royalandderngate.co.uk

See show pages for details

HOW TO FIND US The Royal and Derngate auditoria and our Underground spaces are all accessed via our main entrance. This is situated on Swan Street, off Guildhall Road, in the centre of Northampton, approximately 15 minutes by car from the M1 and an hour from London by train.

There are train and bus connections approximately 15 minutes walk from the theatre. You can also visit www.nationalrail.co.uk (trains) or www.traveline.info (buses)

Car Parking As part of the town centre re-development programme led by Northampton Borough Council, St John’s Surface Car Park is now closed. The 150 spaces that have been removed with this closure have been accommodated within the spare capacity that already exists in the adjacent St John’s Multi-Storey Car Park.

The closest surface car park to Royal & Derngate, Albion Place Car Park (accessed via Derngate) remains open as usual. There are a number of pay and display on‑street options available.

We are also recommending four other car parks. Hazelwood Road, The Ridings and Commercial Street South car parks are most suitable for customers attending evening performances, while St. Michael’s Multi‑Storey is recommended for matinees audiences only. Please see below for a map of these car parks.

To ensure you have as smooth a journey to the theatre as possible, we are advising customers to leave a little longer than usual for their journey. Please don’t hesitate to talk to Box Office at time of booking if you have any concerns about your visit.

Albion Place NN1 1UD

The Ridings NN1 2BT

St. John’s Multi‑Storey NN1 1HA

Commercial Street South NN1 1PN

Hazelwood Road NCP NN1 1LG

St. Michael’s Multi‑Storey NN1 3JU (matinee only)

Box Office 01604 624811 www.royalandderngate.co.uk

61

Discounts and concessions CONCESSIONS

Schools

Wherever you see , Under 16s, 60+, Students, Jobseekers and Disabled Patrons are entitled to the following discounts (excluding Sat evening and weekday matinees):

Wherever you see , Schools will pay the following price (excluding Fri & Sat evenings):

£2 off top three prices Disabled Patrons can also claim a free carer/ companion ticket

On certain performances, schools prices are available in specific parts of the auditorium only, and at the discretion of the management.

Groups

Family

Wherever you see , Groups are entitled to the following discounts on the top three ticket prices (excluding Fri & Sat evenings and some matinees): Parties 8+ £2 off*

£11 (plus one teacher’s seat free with every 10 tickets purchased)

Wherever you see , a special price applies for your family group. Prices are highlighted on individual show pages. A family is classed as a maximum of 2 adults with 2 children.

Parties 20+ £3 off* Parties 40+ £4 off* Parties 8+ (2013 Made In Northampton matinee shows only) £15 per ticket* *Plus one additional free ticket for the group organiser on all bookings Groups Hotline 01604 620066

Wherever you see , a number of free or discounted tickets are available for 14-26 year olds. Ask Box Office for details.

Generously supported by The Constance Travis Charitable Trust

MUSICAL MULTI-SAVER Wherever you see

REAL DISCOUNTS

FRIENDS, GOLD SUPPORTERS AND ARTISTIC DIRECTOR’S CIRCLE MEMBERS you can save

£5 on each ticket you purchase if you also purchase tickets for CATS. For full details of this offer see page 4.

SUBSCRIBE & SAVE Look at the pricing table on page 60 to see how much you could save by subscribing to our Made In Northampton season.

Wherever you see

,

members are entitled to the discounts highlighted within it and £1 at all other times.

Wherever you see members are entitled to claim £1 off per ticket.

PREVIEWS On all Made In Northampton productions, a £5 discount is available on a number of early performances. Ask Box Office for details.

The above represent our usual discounts, however there are a number of shows every season where slightly different concessions apply. A separate discount structure applies to our Orchestral Season. Box Office will advise if these exceptions affect your tickets at time of booking.

Only one concession type applies per ticket. All concessions are subject to availability and some may only be available for a limited period.

Proof of status will be required on the first purchase of a concessionary ticket and can be checked on any subsequent ticket purchase.

FUNDERS AND SUPPORTERS

Royal & Derngate is a trading name of The Northampton Theatres Trust Limited. Registered Charity Number 1075741. VAT No: 623532071

HOW TO BOOK PHONE Call 01604 624811 or visit the Box Office in person ONLINE Visit www.royalandderngate.co.uk and select your own seat EMAIL Email our Sales Advisors at box.office@royalandderngate.co.uk POST Royal & Derngate, Box Office, Guildhall Road, Northampton, NN1 1DP OPENING TIMES The Box Office is open from 10am until 15 minutes after the last performance commences, closing at 6pm when there is no evening performance. On Sundays and Bank Holidays, it is open from 1 hour 30 minutes prior to the first performance commencing.

BOOKINGS A postal charge of 75p applies. Tickets can be collected at Box Office for no charge. All online and telephone bookings are subject to a £2.50 transaction fee. Friends, Gold Supporters, Disabled Patrons, and Group Bookings are exempt. This fee does not apply to those booking in person at the Box Office and, unlike many other theatres, is only applicable per-booking and not per-ticket. It has been introduced to support the running costs of Royal & Derngate. As ticket revenue is divided between many different parties, an increase in ticket prices may not necessarily benefit the theatre. By adding a small transaction charge, we ensure that every penny goes directly to Royal & Derngate.

CONDITIONS OF SALE Please note that we are unable to refund or exchange tickets. Boxes in the Royal Auditorium are sold subject to technical requirements and may not be available for purchase. Ticket reservations must be paid for within 4 days of booking (excluding Group Bookings). We are unable to reserve tickets without payment within the 7 days prior to the performance.

Please note: Information is correct at the time of going to press. We reserve the right to make any alterations to the programme, performers, times, ticket prices and Box Office opening hours. Every effort will be made to advertise changes in the local press. Some events or performances may be advertised in the national media prior to publication in the brochure and this is beyond the control of the Management.

ACCESSIBLE PERFORMANCES We are committed to enabling as many people as possible to enjoy performances at Royal & Derngate. We offer sign language interpreted, captioned and audio described performances for all Made In Northampton productions and a host of touring shows. Just on the brochure pages. look for these symbols We are also holding a relaxed performance of The Wind In The Willows (see page 49). This is a specially adapted and relaxed performance for customers with a wide range of disabilities and for those on the autistic spectrum. There may be some small changes to the show in terms of lighting and sound but the overall content will not change. There will also be a more relaxed atmosphere in the auditorium in order to reduce anxiety and ensure an enjoyable visit. A visual story and familiarisation meeting plus relaxation area will also be available.

• The Sennheiser Infra-red Enhanced Hearing System is available from Box Office. To ensure that you purchase tickets in seats with optimum coverage, please check with Box Office at time of booking.

• Royal & Derngate has level access into the building and each auditoria, with a number of wheelchair spaces in each and lift access to each floor (excluding upper-circle).

• Guide and hearing dogs are welcome and water can be provided. If you wish to take your dog into the auditorium, please let Box Office know when booking so that suitable seats can be allocated for you.

To book, or if you have any queries, you can contact Box Office using Text Relay. Just call 18001‑01604-624811. Alternatively, you can use our mobile service. Just text 07825 427492.

Large Print, Audio and Braille versions of this brochure are available on request. Please call Box Office on 01604 624811.

Box Office 01604 624811 www.royalandderngate.co.uk

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We Jo Whiley @jowhiley @royalderngate r Xmas absolutely LOVED Humbug today. Prope e! Thank You x anyon to mend recom d Woul . magic

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Royal & Derngate What was your fav ourite production of 2012?

Christian Adams Ste wart Lee, Dara O’B riain and Ross Noble we re all awesome, the three wise men.

Barbara Lunnon Cir que du Ciel - aweso me.

Angela Sippits The Osmonds! Especially as a lifelong dream cam e true as i met the m after 40yrs of being a fan!

Nick Wolstenholm e 10CC and Ross No ble were both memorab le.

Looking forward to seeing Bill Bailey , Derren Brown, Ha rry Hill and Micky Flanag an this year.... Keep up the great work!

Chris Poppe @chrispoppe Very enjoyable panto at the Royal & Derngate this year - Cinderella! Really funny script & great performances! bit.ly/XSfQNV

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Box Office 01604 624811 www.royalandderngate.co.uk